Head Veterinary Nurse (HVN)

Job Description

Introduction

Our Client’s practice is a friendly, progressive small animal hospital based in North West London, offering a genuinely collaborative and supportive working environment. The practice has seen significant growth in recent years and is proud of its high clinical standards, strong leadership team and commitment to staff development. This is an exciting opportunity for an established Head RVN or an experienced RVN ready to take the next step into a leadership role within a growing practice.

Working Hours / Rota

This is a full-time position working 40 hours per week. The rota includes one Saturday in three with time off in lieu. There are no out-of-hours duties and no Sunday working, supporting an excellent work/life balance. Flexibility within the rota is available and encouraged.

Role Description

The role offers a varied and engaging workload combining clinical leadership with hands-on nursing. Responsibilities include clinical coaching and mentoring of student veterinary nurses, running nurse clinics such as obesity, diabetic and behavioural consultations, and carrying out Schedule 3 procedures including dental scale and polishes. You will also be involved in routine nursing duties such as second vaccinations and post-operative checks. Alongside this, you will play a key role in the ongoing development of the nursing team and wider practice, working closely with senior leadership to help shape the future direction of the clinic.

Team Size

The team consists of 3.5 veterinary surgeons, 1 RVN, 2 student veterinary nurses, 1 veterinary care assistant and a dedicated practice manager. The practice is further supported by visiting peripatetic orthopaedic surgeons and an ultrasonographer, creating a well-rounded and collaborative clinical team.

Practice Details

The practice is purpose-built and well equipped, offering a modern clinical environment with species-specific kennel areas. Facilities include a full in-house laboratory, ultrasound and digital imaging, supporting a high standard of patient care. The practice is conveniently located within a retail park with ample onsite parking and excellent transport links, and an exciting practice rebrand is planned for later this year.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate will be a Registered Veterinary Nurse with strong communication skills and a positive, lead-by-example approach. Experience as a Head RVN or a senior RVN looking to step into a leadership role would be ideal. An interest in clinical coaching is desirable, although full support and training can be provided. The successful applicant will be enthusiastic, proactive and passionate about team development, clinical standards and delivering excellent client and patient care.

This is just some of the information about the job and company, but there will be more questions. Tempus Veterinary Recruitment is happy to get those questions answered for you during the recruiting process. Tempus Veterinary Recruitment is here to make the recruiting process simple and stress free.

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