Veterinary Medical Director

Company: Iowa Veterinary Specialties
Location: Des Moines
Posted on: March 17, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Company Overview Iowa Veterinary Specialties (IVS) is a fast-paced, AAHA-accredited, and referral practice in Des Moines, Iowa. Owned and affiliated with the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine and operational for over 40 years, we provide 24-hour emergency and specialty veterinary care. Our dedicated team includes emergency veterinarians, boarded specialty surgeons and skilled veterinary technicians & assistants. Position Overview The Medical Director is responsible for establishing and overseeing all medical operations and clinical staff, and upholding the highest standards of care. They are also responsible for ensuring DEA compliance. This role provides strategic and clinical leadership, fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement while advancing the quality of care across the organization. As IVS is affiliated with the College of Veterinary Medicine, fostering a teaching environment is also vital to ensure a quality educational experience for veterinary students. Continual integration and collaboration between IVS and the CVM is essential to promote student engagement and ensure the best client/patient experience between both locations. In addition to leadership responsibilities, the Medical Director actively practices as a DVM, providing emergency and critical care services and working beside existing emergency doctors to build skills and knowledge. The position is structured as an estimated 60/40 split between Medical Director leadership duties and clinical ER responsibilities. This leadership role embodies the core values of Iowa Veterinary Specialties—Compassion, Integrity, Quality, Education, and Teamwork Open to relocation support. Responsibilities DVM Veterinarian Provide high-quality emergency, trauma, and critical care to hospitalized and incoming ER patients, ensuring exceptional client service. Work with current DVMs to improve skill sets and provide education about more complex case management. Clinical schedule is flexible depending on needs. Day and swing shifts may be necessary, as well as limited weekend and holiday coverage. Nightshift coverage is not required. Student Education Develop and manage veterinary student programs in partnership with the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, including expanding existing initiatives and creating new experiential learning opportunities. Build and maintain strong professional relationships with referring DVMs, faculty and staff at Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, and key industry partners to support collaboration, referral growth, and educational advancement. Medical Director The Medical Director and Business Manager will work together to lead the hospital in growing and expanding. These hospital leaders report quarterly to the IVS Board of Directors which is composed of members from the Iowa State and the College of Veterinary Medicine as well as community members. Create, evaluate, implement, and uphold medical standards, protocols, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) while fostering a motivated, structured, and collaborative team environment. Collaborate with fellow IVS leadership to drive long-range strategic planning, establish organizational goals, and develop/refine company policies that support sustainable growth and operational excellence. Recruit, hire, train, mentor, and manage DVMs, and partner with the Technician Supervisor to support and develop technical support staff. Develop and oversee DVM schedules, including coordination of locum DVM coverage as needed. Provide guidance and leadership to DVMs in resolving complex medical cases and client concerns. Ensure IVS consistently delivers the highest standard of veterinary medical care through clinical oversight, quality assurance initiatives, and continuous improvement and team performance. Qualifications Required: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Having or being able to obtain an Iowa Veterinary License and DEA registration Minimum of 2-years’ experience in small animal emergency medicine Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively in a rapidly changing environment Proficiency with Microsoft Office and PIMS software Preferred: Experience in a multi-specialty veterinary practice Board-certification in an AVMA recognized veterinary specialty organization Minimum of 2-years’ of supervisory and training experience Experience in performing common emergency surgeries Experience using EzyVet & VetRadar Benefits : Annual Salary of $180,000-$225,000 and possible relocation assistance Generous benefits package including: 401(k) with 4% match, PTO, health, dental, vision supplemental insurance and free life and disability insurance Employee perks including: free scrubs, paid volunteer time off and the ability to bring your pet to work. Continuing education courses, licenses and memberships paid by the company Why Join Us? ISU affiliation with a strong dedication to training ISU student Veterinary students from 1st years to graduation. 40-year track record serving Des Moines and surrounding communities AAHA-accredited facility with advanced diagnostic capabilities, including 64-slice CT scanner. Vibrant and inclusive team culture with a focus on high-quality medicine and patient care. We prioritize work-life balance and aim to create an environment where you feel supported both professionally and personally. Iowa Veterinary Specialties is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Keywords: Iowa Veterinary Specialties, Ankeny , Veterinary Medical Director, Healthcare , Des Moines, Iowa