Equine Head Nurse

Willows Veterinary Group; Brighton; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A modern veterinary practice in Brighton is looking for an Equine Head Nurse to lead the nursing team and ensure exceptional care for equine patients. The role involves managing clinical work allocations, upholding clinical standards, and supporting staff development in a collaborative environment. Candidates should possess strong horse-handling skills and previous experience in equine nursing, ideally in a leadership capacity. A competitive salary and the opportunity for ongoing professional development are offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits

Opportunities for professional development

Supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Experience in equine nursing, preferably in a leadership role.
• Ability to work out-of-hours on a 1:6 rota post-training.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily clinical work allocation for the nursing team.
• Provide line management and maintain nursing staff practices.
• Ensure compliance with clinical standards and hospital protocols.

Skills

Exceptional horse-handling skills

Ability to lead and motivate a team

Strong organizational skills

Job description

Ashbrook Equine Hospital is a busy, modern facility providing exceptional care to a wide range of equine patients, from elite sports horses to family companions. Our hospital is equipped with a large operating theatre, advanced diagnostic imaging suite (including digital radiography, ultrasonography and video endoscopy), an isolation unit, and a standing MRI scanner. We also offer fresh, frozen, and chilled AI services, together with stallion semen collection.

We are seeking a self‑motivated, experienced Equine Head Nurse to lead our dedicated nursing team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about equine care and team leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and organise the nursing team, including daily clinical work allocation and out‑of‑hours rota.
• Provide line management for nursing staff, including holiday approval, sickness recording, and return‑to‑work interviews.
• Maintain high standards of inpatient and day patient care, theatre nursing, imaging and out‑of‑hours duties.
• Ensure compliance with equipment maintenance schedules and laboratory machine quality control.
• Promote a positive, collaborative working environment and uphold clinical standards across all areas.

About You

• Exceptional horse‑handling skills and a commitment to patient care.
• Previous experience in equine nursing and ideally in a leadership or line management role.
• Ability to work on‑site out‑of‑hours on a 1:6 rota (depending on team numbers) following training.
• Enthusiastic, organised, and able to motivate and support a team.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and funded CPD.
• A supportive, friendly team environment within a well‑equipped hospital.

To apply, please email your CV and covering letter to [e-mail], quoting reference 80. Applications will close when a suitable candidate is found.