Lead a passionate team and help shape the future of a hospital entering an exciting new chapter.
Bishop's Stortford Vets is an independent, 16-vet small animal hospital that has been caring for pets in Hertfordshire for more than 120 years. RCVS-accredited since 1985, we've built a reputation for providing exceptional patient care while continually investing in our facilities, equipment and, most importantly, our people.
Now, we're entering one of the most exciting periods in our history. Major refurbishment work is due to begin in the coming weeks, with a brand-new purpose-built hospital set to take shape over the next 10-12 months. As we invest in our future, we're looking for an Experienced Head Veterinary Nurse to lead our incredibly skilled nursing team through this exciting journey.
A team that genuinely supports one another
You’ll be joining a friendly, close-knit, and highly experienced team that manages the vast majority of cases in-house, including soft-tissue surgery and orthopaedics. We are incredibly proud of our nursing team, whose enthusiasm and passion for the profession shine through every day. Continuing education and professional development are actively encouraged, and we are committed to helping every team member achieve their ambitions.
You’ll be supported by an established Deputy Head Nurse and work alternating shifts, ensuring there is always senior nursing support within the hospital. This is very much a collaborative leadership role where you'll help nurture, develop and inspire the team while maintaining the high standards of care our clients have come to expect.
Your role
We're seeking an RVN with previous Head Nurse experience and a genuine passion for leadership, patient care and developing others. We're looking for someone who enjoys supporting colleagues, embraces teamwork and wants to be part of an independent hospital with exciting plans for the future.
You’ll also:
- Lead and support the nursing team in the smooth day-to-day running of the hospital.
- Assist with consultations, surgery and diagnostic procedures.
- Oversee inpatient care and ensure our exceptional standards are maintained.
- Maintain clinical equipment and ensure compliance with hygiene and safety protocols.
- Mentor and develop colleagues, encouraging professional growth and further education.
- Communicate with clients to provide support, advice and continuity of care.
- Promote a positive team culture and champion excellent patient welfare.
The rota
This is a full-time position, working 40 hours per week between 8.30 am and 7.30 pm, with a 1-in-4 weekend day shift. As a 24-hour hospital, there may be the very occasional need to cover a night shift or serve as second-on-call support for a junior team member, though these situations are rare.
Benefits include
- Salary of £35,000-£40,000 DOE
- Company pension
- Employee discount
- Employee mentoring programme
- Health and well-being support
- Sick pay and free flu vaccinations
Life in Bishop's Stortford
Bishop's Stortford is a beautiful market town surrounded by rolling countryside, offering excellent schools, cafés and restaurants. Many of our team members are dog owners, and our unofficial "doggie work team" often joins us around the practice and on lunchtime walks. We are situated opposite the local leisure centre, perfect for a swim or workout before or after work, and a large park provides the ideal setting for lunchtime strolls.
Outside of work, the area offers cycling, walking, open-water swimming and fishing, while the Essex coastline is just over an hour away. London Liverpool Street can be reached in around 45 minutes by train, Cambridge in 30 minutes, and Stansted Airport is only 15 minutes away, making weekend adventures incredibly accessible.
If you're looking for a role where you can lead, inspire and grow alongside a passionate team, we'd love to hear from you.
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Contact Details:
Bishops Stortford Veterinary Hospital Recruitment Team
