Head Veterinary Nurse (HVN)

Job Description

Introduction
Our Client’s practice is a progressive small animal practice based in Irvine and forms part of a wider group of three practices across Ayrshire. The clinics are built around a culture of support, collaboration and continuous development, ensuring every member of the team feels valued and encouraged within their role.

The nursing team is central to the practice’s success and plays a highly active role in delivering exceptional patient care. Nurses are supported by experienced leadership, including Head Nurses and an RVN Business Partner, creating an environment where development, communication and clinical progression are genuinely prioritised.

The practice also benefits from a team of RVNs with additional training in areas such as acupuncture, pain management, behaviour and Schedule 3 surgical procedures, providing an excellent environment for professional growth and learning.

Working Hours / Rota
The role offers flexible working opportunities with both full-time and part-time applications considered. Working hours range between 30 and 40 hours per week depending on preference and business needs. The weekend rota consists of 1 in 4 Saturdays and there are no out of hours requirements, helping to support an excellent work-life balance.

The practice recognises that flexibility is important and aims to tailor rotas where possible to suit individual lifestyles and commitments.

Role Description
This Head Registered Veterinary Nurse role offers an excellent opportunity for an experienced RVN looking to take the next step within their career. The successful candidate will lead by example clinically while supporting and mentoring the wider nursing team.

Daily responsibilities will include nurse consultations, anaesthesia monitoring, inpatient care, supporting surgical procedures and maintaining high standards of clinical and client care. The role will also involve leadership responsibilities within the nursing team, helping to drive standards, support colleagues and contribute positively to the ongoing development of the practice.

The position provides excellent opportunities for continued professional development within a forward-thinking and supportive environment where nurses are empowered to fully utilise their skills and experience.

Team Size
Across the three Ayrshire practices, the wider clinical team consists of 14 Veterinary Surgeons, 12 Registered Veterinary Nurses, 2 Veterinary Care Assistants, 3 GPD-trained Clinical Lead Vets and 3 Clinical Coach RVNs.

The practices are led by four partners including two vets, one RVN and a practice manager, ensuring all team members have a voice within the business. Additional support is provided by three Head Nurses, three senior nurses and the RVN Business Partner, helping to maintain a collaborative and supportive working culture.

Practice Details
The practice is modern, progressive and well-equipped, with a strong focus on delivering high-quality patient and client care. The clinics place significant importance on teamwork, communication and creating a positive working environment where colleagues support one another professionally and personally.

The wider practice group is committed to continued clinical development and invests heavily in both equipment and training opportunities to ensure the team can continue delivering excellent standards of veterinary care.

Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate will be a qualified Registered Veterinary Nurse with previous experience and a genuine passion for veterinary nursing. The practice is looking for someone who is confident within a leadership role and enjoys supporting and motivating colleagues within a team environment.

Candidates should be proactive, organised and able to lead by example while maintaining high standards of patient and client care. A positive attitude, strong communication skills and a willingness to contribute to the wider team culture are all highly valued within this role.

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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