At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic Medicine team, delivering exceptional patient care and advanced procedures.
- Company: Join Veterinary Specialists Scotland, a rapidly expanding referral centre with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous CPD allowance, private healthcare, and 272 hours of holiday plus birthday leave.
- Other info: Exciting growth opportunities in a state-of-the-art facility just 20 minutes from Edinburgh.
- Why this job: Shape the future of veterinary medicine while developing your leadership skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must be an RCVS-registered RVN with at least 3 years of experience.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 34000 € per year.
Location: Veterinary Specialists Scotland (VSS), Livingston
Salary: £34,000 per annum
Hours: Permanent | Full-Time | 40 hours per week (includes weekends & on-call)
We are seeking an experienced and driven Lead Registered Veterinary Nurse to take a key leadership role within our expanding Medicine team at Veterinary Specialists Scotland. This is an exciting opportunity for a confident nurse who is passionate about clinical excellence, enjoys working in a fast‑paced referral environment, and is ready to take the next step into leadership while continuing to develop advanced clinical skills.
You will work alongside an exceptional team of specialists in a state‑of‑the‑art facility, helping to deliver outstanding care to a diverse and complex caseload while supporting and developing the nursing team.
About the Medicine Team
Our Medicine department is a busy, collaborative service working closely with specialists across:
- Internal Medicine
- Cardiology
- Dermatology
- Soft Tissue Surgery
- Orthopaedics
- Neurology
- Anaesthesia
Collaboration is central to our approach. We work closely with our Imaging team to deliver advanced diagnostics and procedures including radiography, fluoroscopy, CT, and MRI — across all stages of patient care.
The Role
As Lead Medicine RVN, you will play a pivotal role in both clinical delivery and team leadership within the Medicine service.
Clinical Responsibilities
- Support the Medicine team with inpatient care and advanced procedures
- Monitor anaesthesia across a wide range of cases, including emergency and critically ill patients
- Assist with advanced diagnostics and treatments
- Deliver exceptional patient and client care
- Maintain high clinical standards and support efficient patient flow
Leadership & Development Responsibilities
- Act as a senior point of contact within the Medicine nursing team
- Support, mentor, and develop RVNs and students within the department
- Assist with rota coordination and day‑to‑day organisation of the service
- Drive clinical standards, protocols, and best practices
- Work closely with clinicians and senior nursing colleagues to support service development
- Promote a positive, collaborative, and supportive team culture
This is a hands‑on leadership role, combining clinical excellence with the opportunity to shape and influence the future of the Medicine service.
About You
We’re looking for someone who:
- Is an RCVS‑registered RVN
- Has a minimum of 3 years’ experience as an RVN (referral experience advantageous)
- Is confident monitoring anaesthesia across a range of case complexities
- Has strong organisational and leadership skills
- Is passionate about mentoring and supporting others
- Thrives in a fast‑paced referral environment
- Demonstrates a proactive and collaborative approach
Previous leadership or senior nursing experience is desirable but not essential for the right candidate. Ongoing support and development will be provided.
What We Offer
We believe in supporting our people as much as our patients. Benefits include:
- Generous CPD allowance with extensive learning and development programmes
- Clear progression and leadership development opportunities
- RCVS fees paid & VDS cover
- 272 hours holiday including bank holidays + an additional birthday leave day
- Access to Private Healthcare (opt‑in)
- Subsidised pet care
- Enhanced equal family leave
- Enhanced sick pay
- Employer pension contribution
- Electric car salary sacrifice scheme
- Wellness Support
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Eyecare voucher scheme
- Free annual flu jab
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Recruitment referral rewards
About Veterinary Specialists Scotland
Veterinary Specialists Scotland is a purpose‑built, rapidly expanding, multi‑disciplinary referral centre located in Livingston — just 20 minutes from Edinburgh, 40 minutes from Glasgow, and 15 minutes from Edinburgh Airport. Since opening in October 2020, we have grown significantly across seven clinical disciplines. Our modern facility offers substantial scope for continued expansion, making this an exciting time to join us and help shape the future of the service.
About Linnaeus
Veterinary Specialists Scotland is part of Linnaeus and Mars Veterinary Health, the largest family‑owned veterinary company in the world. At Linnaeus, A Better World for Pets starts with a better world for our people. With a global network of over 6000 associates, we offer outstanding development opportunities, collaboration, and a comprehensive wellbeing package supporting both physical and mental health. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture where everyone feels supported, valued, and empowered to perform at their best.
Apply
All applications with the relevant skills and qualifications will be carefully considered.
For more information, please contact: Rebecca Coleman – TA Partner rebecca.coleman@linnaeusgroup.co.uk
Lead Medicine RVN in Livingston employer: Cinque Ports Vets
Veterinary Specialists Scotland is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment for Lead Medicine RVNs. With a strong focus on clinical excellence and professional development, employees benefit from generous CPD allowances, clear progression pathways, and a collaborative culture that values teamwork and mentorship. Located in Livingston, just a short distance from Edinburgh and Glasgow, this state-of-the-art facility provides the perfect setting for veterinary professionals to thrive while making a meaningful impact on animal care.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Medicine RVN in Livingston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the veterinary field, especially those who work at Veterinary Specialists Scotland. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your clinical skills and leadership experience. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported and mentored others in a fast-paced environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for animal care! During your interview, express your enthusiasm for working with complex cases and your commitment to maintaining high clinical standards. Let them see your dedication!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Veterinary Specialists Scotland.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Medicine RVN in Livingston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Lead Medicine RVN role. Highlight your clinical excellence and leadership experience to show us you're the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for veterinary medicine and how you can contribute to our growing Medicine team. We want to see your personality come through!
Showcase Your Team Spirit:Since collaboration is key in our Medicine department, mention any experiences where you've worked closely with others. We love seeing candidates who thrive in a team environment!
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us quickly, apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to review your application and get back to you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cinque Ports Vets
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your clinical knowledge, especially around anaesthesia and advanced procedures. Be ready to discuss specific cases you've handled and how you contributed to patient care.
✨Show Leadership Potential
Since this role involves team leadership, think of examples where you've mentored or supported others. Highlight your organisational skills and how you've contributed to a positive team culture in previous roles.
✨Be Collaborative
Emphasise your ability to work closely with specialists and other departments. Prepare to discuss how you've collaborated in the past, particularly in a fast-paced environment, and how you can contribute to the Medicine team's success.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the Medicine service and its future. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can fit into their vision for growth and excellence.
