Chief of Emergency Medicine

Chief of ER Services (ER Medical Leader)

VetMED Emergency & Specialty | Phoenix, AZ

VetMED is seeking a Chief of Emergency Services to help lead, grow, and elevate our emergency service. This is an opportunity for an experienced ER doctor or Criticalist who is ready to step into a leadership role while continuing to practice high-quality, advanced medicine.

We’re looking for someone who is passionate about improving patient outcomes, developing doctors, and building a strong, collaborative team culture.

About the Role

As Chief ER Doctor, you will serve as a key clinical leader within the hospital—partnering closely with the Medical Director and Director of Hospital Operations to oversee ER medical services while supporting and developing the ER DVM team.

This role is a blend of clinical practice and leadership, with the majority of time spent on the floor and dedicated administrative time to support team and hospital initiatives.

Why This Role

This is more than just a leadership title—this is a chance to shape the ER team, influence hospital culture, and drive medical excellence in a high-impact, high-growth environment.

What You’ll Do

Lead & Develop the ER Doctor Team

• Provide ongoing coaching, mentorship, and support to ER veterinarians

• Conduct formal and informal performance feedback, including evaluations and development plans

• Lead Quarterly review of staff DVM financial performance in collaboration with director team

• Provides opinions and collaborates with hospital managers, directors, and MD on DVM scheduling. Provides opinion on the number of DVMs required per shift, assist with managing relief labor etc.

• Foster a positive, accountable, and team-oriented culture

• Support recruiting, onboarding, and training of new doctors

Drive Medical Excellence

• Partner with the Medical Director and specialists to ensure high-quality, evidence-based medicine

• Maintain consistency in protocols, standards of care, and clinical decision-making

• Participate in peer review through chart audits, case reviews, and adverse event tracking

• Ensure the highest standards of emergency and critical care are consistently delivered

Collaborate Across Hospital Leadership

• Work closely with the DHO, MD, Charge Nurse, and leadership team to:

• Improve workflows and hospital efficiency

• Align communication and expectations across teams

• Identify opportunities for growth and improvement

• Lead regular leadership, DVM, and staff meetings

• Participates in the recruiting, selecting, orienting, and training of doctors along with the HR Generalist, Hospital Director, MD, and other members of the management team.

Stay Hands-On Clinically

• Practice as an ER clinician for much of a full-time schedule (90%)

• Balance clinical responsibilities with administrative leadership time

Support Client Experience

• Resolves client needs, concerns, and complaints along with the Hospital Director and Medical Director .

• Help guide the team in delivering compassionate, high-quality client interactions—even in high-stress situations

About VetMED

VetMED is a busy, multi-specialty emergency and referral hospital with a strong commitment to patient care, team development, and clinical excellence. We work alongside a collaborative group of specialists and experienced ER doctors, creating an environment where medicine and mentorship thrive.

What We’re Looking For

• DVM or equivalent degree

• Arizona veterinary license (or eligibility) + DEA license

• Internship training or equivalent ER experience

• DACVECC (board-certified or residency-trained candidates strongly encouraged to apply)

• Prior leadership or supervisory experience preferred

• Strong background in emergency and critical care (24-hour hospital experience)

• Strong communicator with the ability to lead clear, consistent, and compassionate conversations with both clients and team members

• Proven leadership skills, including coaching, accountability, and team development

• Ability to build trust and foster a collaborative, positive team environment

• Comfortable giving and receiving feedback, including navigating difficult conversations

• Ability to stay composed and lead effectively in high-pressure, fast-paced situations

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to balance clinical and administrative responsibilities

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation

• Sign-on bonus + relocation assistance

• CE stipend + dedicated CE time

• Full benefits package + 401k

• Opportunity for leadership growth and development

• The ability to make a meaningful impact on a growing ER service

Additional Details

• Opportunity to serve as Responsible Veterinarian (premise license)

• DEA license required for controlled substance oversight

• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods

• Schedule includes a mix of clinical shifts, weekends, and holidays

To learn more, please apply online or submit your resume/CV to Linsey Beckner at [email protected]