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:
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Five working days per week
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Only 1 in 4 Saturday mornings (9am–1pm)
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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:
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Leading the nursing team with professionalism and compassion
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Supporting staff development through training, mentoring, and regular check-ins
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Managing rotas, stock control, and assisting with general coordination of the practice
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Collaborating closely with the Practice Manager and Clinical Director
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Maintaining a high standard of patient care through nurse consults, anaesthetics, in-patient care, and surgical support
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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:
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A qualified, RCVS-registered veterinary nurse
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Comfortable leading by example and offering support to colleagues at all levels
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Strong on communication, both with clients and within the team
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Organised, proactive, and confident in prioritising tasks
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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:
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6 weeks’ paid holiday (including bank holidays)
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£600 CPD allowance per annum
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Paid RCVS and VDS memberships, plus one additional subscription
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Access to Health Shield – covering a range of wellbeing and health treatments
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Enhanced maternity, paternity, and parental leave
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Discounted veterinary fees
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Cycle to work scheme
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CPD support, employee perks and discount platforms
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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 niamh@lloydandcowan.com
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