Deputy Head Nurse - Small Animal

British Veterinary Association; Axminster; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading veterinary hospital as a Deputy Head Nurse in Axminster, where you will play a crucial role in managing the nursing team and ensuring exceptional patient care. This full-time position offers a supportive environment with opportunities for professional growth and a strong emphasis on work-life balance.

Benefits

6.6 weeks of annual leave

Paid day off for your birthday

Private medical insurance

Cycle to Work scheme

£550 CPD allowance

Discounted pet care for staff

Pension scheme

Qualifications

• Must have 3+ years of experience or be an existing Deputy Head Nurse.
• Strong leadership and teamwork skills required.
• Experience in clinical coaching and managing nursing teams.

Responsibilities

• Deputise for the Head RVN and manage nursing team operations.
• Ensure high standards of patient care and compliance with SOPs.
• Lead and support the training and development of student nurses.

Skills

Leadership

Teamwork

Patient Care

Clinical Coaching

Education

Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN)

Job description

Coombefield Veterinary Hospital is excited to accept applications for a confident, motivated Deputy Head Nurse to join our team on a full-time basis. If you are eager to develop your career in a busy, well-equipped RCVS-accredited Veterinary Hospital in Axminster, Devon, this is an excellent opportunity!

The Role

We are seeking a Deputy Head Nurse to work 32 hours per week, including a weekend rota. Our ideal candidate would currently be an existing Deputy Head Nurse or an experienced RVN with 3 or more years of experience. You will work alongside our Head Nurse and another Deputy Head Nurse. This role involves both clinical and administrative responsibilities, including:

1. Deputising in the absence of the Head RVN, managing all aspects of the nursing team
2. Setting standards for professional conduct
3. Ensuring the highest standards of patient care
4. Role modeling and advocating excellent teamwork
5. Supporting the Head RVN in hospital operations and directing the team
6. Supporting projects involving the nursing team and hospital management
7. Maintaining and ensuring compliance with SOPs and job standards
8. Reviewing and updating Practice Standards Scheme and Health & Safety policies
9. Leading, inspiring, and managing student nurses and VCAs, ensuring competencies are met
10. Supporting new team members during induction and training
11. Providing clinical coaching and supporting clinical governance and auditing
12. Overseeing the daily operation of the in-house laboratory
13. Inspiring, leading, and motivating staff is essential

Who We Are

Our main site is an RCVS-accredited, purpose-built hospital in Axminster, with a branch in Seaton. We operate a dedicated out-of-hours emergency service, Three Counties Veterinary Emergencies, based at our Axminster location. We are the only 24-hour RCVS-accredited hospital in the area, equipped with modern facilities including theatres, labs, and separate wards. Located on the beautiful Jurassic Coast, there are numerous outdoor activities nearby.

Our Team and Culture

Our nursing team comprises 11 RVNs, 3 night VNs, 3 SVNs, and 5 VCAs. We pride ourselves on a friendly, vibrant, and collaborative environment. Our team benefits from diverse special interests among our 17 veterinarians, with opportunities to explore various areas of veterinary nursing. We promote an inclusive and respectful culture, with an open-door leadership policy and flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance. Our core values emphasize family, well-being, and professional development.

Because Our People Matter

We recognize the importance of our staff and invest in their growth and well-being. Benefits include:

Work-life Balance

• 6.6 weeks of annual leave, increasing with service
• Paid day off for your birthday

Wellbeing

• Enhanced family-friendly policies and private medical insurance
• Cycle to Work scheme and employee wellbeing initiatives
• Support for non-accidental injuries

Development

• £550 CPD allowance and paid time off
• Certificate support and online learning resources
• Research funding opportunities and quality improvement programs

Professional Memberships

• VDS coverage
• RCVS fees

Additional Benefits

• Pawsome benefits discount scheme
• Pension scheme
• Discounted pet care for staff