Head Veterinary Nurse Fixed-Term Contract

Veterinary Staff; Forest Row; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable small animal practice in Forest Row is seeking a Head Veterinary Nurse to lead a dedicated team. This full-time, fixed-term role involves supporting surgical procedures, mentoring staff, and ensuring high standards of care in a welcoming community practice. Excellent benefits and a collaborative environment await the right candidate.

Benefits

Private medical insurance from day one

Health cash plan

Life Assurance (3x salary)

5 weeks' annual leave plus Bank Holidays

Additional Day for You paid off

CPD allowance: £750 plus paid leave

Funded certificate opportunities

VDS and RCVS fees paid

Cycle to Work scheme

Season Ticket Loan (interest-free)

Staff discounts on products and services

Access to wellbeing support services

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of UK-qualified experience.
• Previous leadership or Head Nurse experience is mandatory.
• Clinical Coach qualification or willingness to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Leading and supporting the nursing team in daily operations.
• Overseeing patient care including surgical and medical procedures.
• Maintaining clinical standards and compliance with protocols.

Skills

Client Care

Team Leadership

Clinical Workflow Management

Communication

Organizational Skills

Education

RCVS-registered Veterinary Nurse

Job description

Forest Row, East Sussex
Full-Time | Fixed-Term (12 months)

A respected small animal practice in Forest Row, East Sussex is seeking a passionate and experienced Head Veterinary Nurse to join their friendly and collaborative team on a 12-month fixed-term contract. This is a fantastic opportunity for a confident RVN looking to lead a well-established nursing team in a vibrant, community-focused village on the edge of the stunning Ashdown Forest.

This full-time role involves 40 hours per week with participation in a 1:6 weekend rota at a nearby 24-hour hospital. The practice benefits from a varied caseload and excellent facilities including 3 consult rooms, separate cat and dog wards, a large prep area, theatre, and on-site parking.

About the Role

The Head Veterinary Nurse will take clinical leadership of the nursing team, helping to drive the highest standards of patient and client care, while supporting a team of 3 vets, 1 RVN, 2 student nurses, and client care assistants. The ideal candidate will be a natural leader with at least one year of experience in a head nurse position and a minimum of three years UK-qualified RVN experience.

The position involves a balanced mix of clinical duties, leadership responsibilities, and operational oversight. The successful candidate will be pivotal in setting the tone of the practice, fostering team engagement, and ensuring a caring and efficient working environment.

Key Responsibilities

Client & Patient Care

• Support surgical and medical procedures

• Conduct nurse-led appointments

• Oversee patient monitoring, admission, and discharge

• Ensure accurate and up-to-date clinical records

• Dispense and check medications in accordance with protocols

• Coordinate patient transfers when necessary

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead and support the nursing team in day-to-day operations

• Coordinate clinical activities with daily briefings and communications

• Conduct team meetings and briefings

• Provide coaching and mentorship, including support for student nurses

• Promote nurse-led clinics and Schedule 3 procedures

Clinical Standards & Compliance

• Maintain high standards in line with veterinary regulations and practice policies

• Implement improvements to clinical processes and workflows

• Ensure compliance with Health & Safety protocols

Administration & Operational Oversight

• Manage stock control and lab samples

• Ensure prep areas and operating spaces are ready and maintained

• Liaise with Practice Manager and veterinary team regarding escalations

Candidate Profile

Essential:

• RCVS-registered Veterinary Nurse

• Minimum 3 years of UK-qualified experience

• Previous leadership or Head Nurse experience (minimum 1 year)

• Confident in mentoring and developing others

• Clinical Coach qualification or willingness to obtain

• Skilled in planning, coordinating, and managing clinical workflow

• Committed to delivering exceptional client and patient care

• Excellent communication and organisational skills

• Able to lead by example and build positive team culture

Benefits Package

• Private medical insurance from day one

• Health cash plan (includes dental, physio, optical & 24/7 GP access)

• Life Assurance (3x salary)

• 5 weeks' annual leave plus Bank Holidays, increasing with service

• Additional Day for You paid day off for personal use

• CPD allowance: £750 plus 2 days' paid leave

• Funded certificate opportunities

• VDS and RCVS fees paid

• Cycle to Work scheme

• Season Ticket Loan (interest-free)

• Staff discounts on products and services

• Access to wellbeing support services

If you're ready to lead a dedicated nursing team and make a real impact in a supportive and well-respected practice, this role offers the perfect next step in your veterinary nursing career.

Send your CV to [e-mail] REF: Head Vet Nurse