Head Veterinary Nurse – Lead in a Well-Equipped 24-Hour Hospital

Location West Sussex
Discipline: Veterinary Nurses
Job type: Permanent
Salary: Up to £36,500k
Contact name: Emily Hannify

Contact email: emily@lloydandcowan.com
Job ref: 5228
Published: about 7 hours ago

Are You an Experienced RVN Ready to Lead in a State-of-the-Art 24-Hour Hospital?

I’m working with a progressive and well-equipped 24-hour veterinary hospital to find an experienced and motivated Head Veterinary Nurse to join their outstanding team. This is an exciting opportunity for a confident RVN to take the next step in their career, leading a skilled and dedicated nursing team within a forward-thinking clinical environment.

The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including CT, digital and dental radiography, endoscopy, bronchoscopy, an in-house lab, multiparameter monitoring, and two theatres, as well as separate cat and dog wards and species-specific waiting areas. The practice supports surrounding branches, providing an interesting and varied caseload.

As Head Veterinary Nurse, you’ll play a key role in leading, developing, and supporting the nursing team while overseeing daily hospital operations. You’ll work closely with the vets, student nurses, and wider team to maintain exceptional clinical standards and foster a positive, collaborative culture.

The role:

  • Full-time, 40 hours per week

  • Permanent position with genuine leadership scope

  • Salary negotiable, depending on experience

What’s on offer:

  • 5 weeks’ annual leave + Bank Holidays

  • £750 CPD allowance + 2 days’ paid leave and funded certificates

  • VDS and RCVS fees covered

  • Pension, and staff discounts

Key responsibilities:

  • Lead and inspire the nursing team to deliver gold-standard care

  • Manage workflow, rotas, and daily clinical operations

  • Mentor and support student nurses and newly qualified RVNs

  • Oversee stock, lab tests, and regulatory compliance

  • Drive nurse-led clinics and continuous improvement initiatives

About you:

  • RCVS-registered Veterinary Nurse with 5+ years’ experience

  • Proven leader with strong mentoring and organisational skills

  • Background in a hospital or referral setting preferred

  • Excellent communicator and motivator

  • Committed to clinical excellence and team development

If you’re ready to take the next step in your nursing career and lead within a progressive, well-equipped hospital, I’d love to hear from you. Please contact me in complete confidence at emily@lloydandcowan.com.

If this role isn’t quite right for you but you know someone who would be a great fit, refer them to me — if they’re successfully placed, you’ll receive a £250 referral bonus as a thank you.