RCVS Website

Preliminary Investigation Committee (PIC) Equine Veterinary Surgeons Reserve vacancies

The RCVS was established in 1844 by Royal Charter to be the governing body of the veterinary profession with the purpose of safeguarding the interests of the public and animals by ensuring that only those registered with the RCVS practise veterinary surgery. The RCVS aims to enhance society through improved animal health and welfare and does so by setting, upholding and advancing the educational, ethical and clinical standards of veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses.

The RCVS regulates the educational, professional and ethical standards of all veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses, regardless of the kind of work they do. A robust investigation and disciplinary mechanism is in place and will be triggered if a veterinary surgeon or nurse falls far short of the standards expected by the profession and the public. The statutory functions are set out in the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, and Supplemental Royal Charter 2015. Veterinary Nurses follow the same processes as veterinary surgeons as confirmed in the Veterinary Nurse Conduct and Discipline Rules 2014 (see Annex C).

The Act requires the governing Council of the college to establish a Preliminary Investigation Committee (PIC) and a Disciplinary Committee (DC). The task of the PIC/RVN PIC is to investigate any case in which it is alleged that a veterinary surgeon or nurse is liable to be removed from the register of veterinary surgeons and nurses, or suspended from the register for a period, by reason of serious professional misconduct. After investigation, the PIC/RVN PIC decides whether to refer the case to the DC/RVN DC.

The RCVS are looking to appoint for the following positions:

Preliminary Investigation Committee (PIC) equine veterinary surgeons reserve members.

All committee members must:

  • be committed to the seven principles of public life
  • understand the importance of maintaining public confidence in the regulation of the veterinary professions
  • be able to grasp detail and contribute to objective decision-making by exercising sound judgment
  • be able to establish and maintain excellent working relationships with a changing group of colleagues from a range of backgrounds and experiences
  • have good oral and written communication skills
  • be able to manage time effectively and
  • (for veterinary/RVN applicants) be currently registered, and in active practice and generally, a minimum of 5 years’ experience will be expected

Remuneration: Currently loss of earnings is set at £366 per day.

Expenses will be covered for these roles.

Closing date: Monday 5 January 2026

Interviews: Thewlis Graham Associates will interview candidates from 26 January 2026 by video call. The RCVS Independent Selection Panel will interview shortlisted candidates from W/C 2 March 2026.

For a confidential discussion please contact Thewlis Graham Associates on RCVS@thewlisgraham.com