Fakenham Farm & Equine Vets

Organisational background

Fakenham Farm and Equine Vets is a mixed large animal practice serving the area of West Norfolk, North Norfolk and Breckland. Opened in October 2021 by Howard and his wife Katrina initially from the kitchen table, the business has since expanded to now run with 3 vets and 1 support staff and its own office unit.  Although we continue to grow, keeping the personal touch is really important to us and we are mindful not to lose this.

• Kindness: Being kind to each other is at the core of every decision we make. Not only in how this relates to clients but also in looking after each other and ourselves.
• Transparency: This isn't just about how we set our pricing but also about our accountability not just to our clients but also to each other.
• Community: Being part of the community means supporting those around us without expecting anything in return. As an example we have committed to providing free routine dental care to all Riding School and RDA horses in the area.
• Sustainability: This is very important to us. We promote sustainability both within the business, as well as to our farm and equine clients. Beyond efficiency of production, we like to encourage discussion about soil health, plastic use, responsible medicine usage, regenerative farming and other sustainability initiatives.

Our small, family run business is only young - We are driven and enthusiastic. We are really proud of what we have started and want everyone who works here to feel the same. We have invested, and will continue to invest, in our equipment and people. We have 2 young children so we understand that life comes first. Without a work-life balance you can't be expected to be the best you can be at work. We will encourage you professionally in every way we can. Whatever your interest is, we will try help you nurture it. On top of the standard CPD allowances you will have a dedicated half day every month to use for CPD as you wish.

First and foremost the right candidate is someone who fits with our ethos and direction.  We want to employ people who are happy to stop for a cup of coffee and take time to build relationships with clients.

Despite being a small independent practice we still offer an enhanced Maternity / Paternity package because we have been there and understand the impact it can have.  We have young children and understand the need to work around them and that sometimes things don't always go to plan.  If our business is running as it should then you won't worry about asking to cut a day early to get to your kids school play - and no that doesn't count as half a days holiday!

We don't have anyone on a flexible schedule at this point in time and run on an 8.30am -> 5pm day.  However, it's a conversation we would be open to having.

As a small but growing team we would actively look for people with different backgrounds, viewpoints and training.  Having a variety of perspectives helps to keep us in check and keeps us fresh.

As one of our core business values, sustainability is something we try and consider at all times.  As an indicator of our interest, one of the directors has recently completed the 1st course by VetSustain in Sustainable Food and Farming.

We're only small so don't have a structured career ladder but we can offer you support, training and a workplace where everyone has input.  Beyond this, if progression to part ownership is something you're interested in then this is something we would encourage.