Job Summary

We are an independent, small animal Veterinary Practice seeking an experienced and motivated Head Veterinary Nurse to lead our nursing team and contribute to the continued development of our clinically excellent service.

We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, progressive veterinary care and are exceptionally well equipped, with our own CT scanner, laparoscopic suite, and a dedicated orthopaedics theatre.

We have two main Practices (Shaftesbury and Wincanton) with 6 Vets, 10 RVNs, 2 SVNs and 2 Kennel Assistants.

This role would suit a confident RVN who can demonstrate clinical excellence, leadership, and who enjoys being part of a close-knit, supportive team.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and support the nursing team to ensure the day is running smoothly.
• Supervision of patient care to ensure this is at the highest level.
• Actively contribute to advanced clinical work, including imaging, surgery, and anaesthesia.
• Maintain and develop nursing protocols, training, and compliance.
• Supervision and training of clinical support staff, including becoming a clinical supervisor to student veterinary nurses.
• Delegation and supervision of duties (e.g maintenance of lab equipment, stock control and ordering).
• Support and mentor student and qualified nurses
• Planning nurse rotas and authorising annual leave.
• Work closely with Vets and management team.

Out of Hours

We provide our own out-of-hours service, and participation in the OOH rota is an essential part of the role. This is a shared rota, currently approximately 1:10, within a supportive and well-organised system.

All out of hours work is paid at time and half the hourly rate. This is in addition to the basic salary.

About You

• RCVS Registered Veterinary Nurse
• Experience in a senior or leadership role, or a strong desire and capability to step into one
• Excellent clinical skills with a commitment to gold-standard patient care
• Confident communicator with strong organisational and leadership abilities
• Enthusiastic, proactive, and keen to develop both the nursing team and the practice

What We Offer

• Competitive salary, dependent on experience.
• All OOH work is paid at time and half hourly rate in addition to basic salary.
• A genuinely supportive, independent working environment.
• Funded CPD and encouragement to pursue areas of clinical interest.
• Further study to advance your career fully funded by the practice
• 5.6 weeks holiday allowance.
• RCVS fees paid.
• The opportunity to work in a well-equipped, progressive practice where nursing input is valued.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a short covering letter outlining your experience and interest in the role.