Head Veterinary Nurse
South West London | Full-Time | Up to £37,000 DOE
We’re currently supporting a well-established small animal practice in South West London in their search for a capable and confident Head Veterinary Nurse. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced RVN who enjoys both hands-on clinical work and mentoring others — someone who’s ready to lead, support a team, and help drive standards forward.
With a long-standing client base and a welcoming, close-knit team, this practice is known for its high standards of care and strong local reputation. The environment is collaborative, the team is friendly, and there’s a genuine focus on patient welfare, professional development, and staff wellbeing.
About the Role
This is a full-time, permanent position with a structured and balanced rota:
Five working days per week
Only 1 in 4 Saturday mornings (9am–1pm)
No out-of-hours or on-call duties
The Head Nurse will oversee a team of two RVNs, one SVN, and a VCA. You’ll be involved in both clinical and administrative duties, playing a key part in the smooth running of the day-to-day operations.
Key responsibilities include:
Leading the nursing team with professionalism and compassion
Supporting staff development through training, mentoring, and regular check-ins
Managing rotas, stock control, and assisting with general coordination of the practice
Collaborating closely with the Practice Manager and Clinical Director
Maintaining a high standard of patient care through nurse consults, anaesthetics, in-patient care, and surgical support
Contributing to a positive working environment and team culture
What We’re Looking For
This role would suit an experienced RVN with natural leadership skills, excellent clinical knowledge, and the confidence to guide a team. Previous experience as a Head Nurse would be ideal, though senior RVNs ready to take the next step will also be considered.
You’ll need to be:
A qualified, RCVS-registered veterinary nurse
Comfortable leading by example and offering support to colleagues at all levels
Strong on communication, both with clients and within the team
Organised, proactive, and confident in prioritising tasks
Genuinely committed to delivering excellent patient and client care
The Package
In return, you’ll receive a competitive salary (up to £37,000 depending on experience), as well as a comprehensive benefits package, including:
6 weeks’ paid holiday (including bank holidays)
£600 CPD allowance per annum
Paid RCVS and VDS memberships, plus one additional subscription
Access to Health Shield – covering a range of wellbeing and health treatments
Enhanced maternity, paternity, and parental leave
Discounted veterinary fees
Cycle to work scheme
CPD support, employee perks and discount platforms
Structured annual pay reviews and a strong focus on staff wellbeing
This is a brilliant opportunity to step into a leadership role in a supportive, progressive environment where you’ll be encouraged to grow and make a real impact.
To find out more or to express interest confidentially, get in touch today.
If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us on 028 8744 0649 or email sophie@lloydandcowan.com
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