Head of Nursing Services

British Veterinary LGBT+; Scotland; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

5 weeks holiday plus bank holidays

RCVS and VDS fees paid

Funded external CPD

Enhanced equal family leave

Comprehensive wellness programme

Job summary

A progressive veterinary hospital in Scotland is looking for a Head of Nursing Services to lead and inspire nursing teams. The ideal candidate is an RVN with 5+ years of leadership experience in a veterinary setting. Responsibilities include managing operations, ensuring compliance, and collaborating with teams. The role offers a competitive salary starting from £50,000, 5 weeks holiday, and additional benefits like wellness programs and external CPD funding.

Qualifications

• Over 5 years of leadership experience in a veterinary setting.
• Proven track record managing large, complex nursing teams.
• Skilled in rota planning, resource management, and mentoring.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage nursing teams at a multi-disciplinary referral hospital.
• Develop and implement strategic initiatives for nursing services.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Operational excellence

Education

Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN)

Job description

Are you ready to take your nursing leadership career to the next level? Our client is seeking an exceptional Head of Nursing Services to lead and inspire their dedicated referral nursing teams. This is a unique chance to join a purpose-built, multi-disciplinary referral hospital that is at the forefront of veterinary care.

In this highly strategic role, you will be an integral part of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), shaping the clinical, operational, and financial performance of the hospital. You will provide strong, visible leadership to the diverse nursing teams, which include Team Leaders, Lead Nurses, experienced RVNs, Patient Care Assistants, and Student Veterinary Nurses. Your influence will extend beyond day-to-day operations, helping to shape the future direction of nursing services within this growing, ambitious hospital.

As Head of Nursing Services, you will drive service development, operational excellence, and strategic growth aligned with practice and group objectives. You will ensure the highest standards of patient and client care, while fostering a positive, collaborative, and high-performing culture. This role offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the hospital’s continued growth and success.

Key responsibilities include representing the nursing function at the SLT level, leading and managing referral nursing teams, supporting and developing Nursing Team Leaders, overseeing patient flow systems, promoting excellence in clinical governance, and ensuring compliance with RCVS, health & safety, GDPR, and group policy requirements. You will also collaborate closely with Veterinary Surgeons and non-clinical teams to maintain strong communication and operational cohesion.

The ideal candidate will be a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) with over 5 years of leadership experience, preferably within a busy, multi-disciplinary environment. You will have a proven track record of managing large, complex nursing teams, and be skilled in rota planning, resource management, recruitment, induction, performance management, mentoring, and coaching. Strong leadership and team management capabilities, financial awareness, and excellent communication and collaboration skills are essential.

In return, you will receive a competitive salary starting from £50,000 per annum. Additional benefits include 5 weeks holiday plus bank holidays and Birthday Leave, RCVS and VDS fees paid, funded external CPD, enhanced equal family leave, and a comprehensive wellness programme.

If you are a dynamic and experienced nursing leader ready to make a significant impact, apply now and help shape the future of veterinary nursing services.

Contact Emma McGee [e-mail] or 07444223408 today.