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- Tasks: Lead a dedicated veterinary nursing team and ensure exceptional patient care.
- Company: Join a corporately owned practice in the charming village of Forest Row.
- Benefits: Enjoy 5 weeks annual leave, health cash plan, and funded CPD opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape practice culture while developing your leadership and clinical skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must be an RCVS-registered Veterinary Nurse with leadership experience and a Clinical Coach qualification.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term maternity cover role for 12 months.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 42000 £ per year.
Our client is a corporately owned practice in Forest Row, currently seeking a Head Registered Veterinary Nurse to lead their friendly and dedicated team. This is a fixed-term maternity cover role for 12 months, ideal for someone with at least one year of head nurse experience and three years as a qualified RVN. This role offers a perfect opportunity for a proactive and confident leader to take charge of a well-established nursing team, while further developing leadership and clinical skills.
Working Hours / Rota
This is a full-time role working 40 hours per week. The rota includes participation in a 1 in 6 weekend rotation at the nearby 24-hour hospital in Faygate.
Role Description
This is a leadership position with responsibility for managing the nursing team, ensuring exceptional patient and client care, and supporting operational excellence across the clinic. You will oversee day-to-day clinic operations, ensure standards are upheld, and drive engagement through clinical meetings and communications. You will lead and promote nurse-led appointments, manage Schedule 3 procedures, and actively contribute to the training and development of your team, including supporting student nurses and participating in clinical coaching. In addition to clinical responsibilities, you will also manage stock levels, assist with diagnostics, and ensure back-of-house areas are ready for procedures. This is a highly rewarding role where you’ll play a crucial role in shaping practice culture and patient outcomes.
Team Size
You will be leading a close-knit team that includes three Veterinary Surgeons, one Registered Veterinary Nurse, two Student Veterinary Nurses, and Client Care Assistants. The team works collaboratively, supporting each other in a friendly, professional, and forward-thinking environment.
Practice Details
The Forest Row practice is situated in a charming village in East Sussex, bordered by the scenic Ashdown Forest. It offers a peaceful and community-focused location with local independent cafés, open green spaces, and excellent access to nearby towns like East Grinstead and Tunbridge Wells. The practice has a modern and welcoming setup including three consult rooms, a large prep area, a separate theatre, dedicated cat and dog wards, a spacious waiting room, and on-site parking. The practice handles a varied surgical and medical caseload, ideal for clinical development and delivering well-rounded care.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate will be an RCVS-registered Veterinary Nurse with at least one year of experience in a Head Nurse role and three years of experience as a qualified RVN. You should be confident leading a team, managing clinical operations, and setting high standards of care. A Clinical Coach qualification is essential, or you should be willing to obtain one. You will be motivated to deliver nurse consultations, enhance practice performance, and support colleagues through coaching and clear communication. This role suits a positive, proactive individual who thrives in a leadership role and is committed to growing with the practice.
Head Veterinary Nurse (HVN) employer: Tempus Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Tempus Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Veterinary Nurse (HVN)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with other veterinary professionals in your area. Attend local veterinary events or join online forums to connect with others who may have insights about the Head Veterinary Nurse role or the practice itself.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the specific challenges and opportunities within the Forest Row practice. Understanding their unique environment and patient care philosophy can help you tailor your approach during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences in managing a team. Highlight any successful initiatives you've led that improved team performance or patient care, as this will resonate well with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the latest veterinary practices and technologies. Being knowledgeable about current trends can demonstrate your commitment to professional development and enhance your candidacy for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Veterinary Nurse (HVN)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience as a Head Veterinary Nurse. Emphasise your leadership skills, clinical expertise, and any specific achievements in previous roles that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for veterinary nursing and your leadership abilities. Mention how your experience aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description, and express your enthusiasm for contributing to the practice's culture and patient care.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list your qualifications, including your RCVS registration and any additional certifications like Clinical Coach. If you are willing to obtain further qualifications, mention this to show your commitment to professional development.
Showcase Team Leadership Experience: Provide examples of your experience in managing a team, conducting training, and promoting nurse-led appointments. This will demonstrate your capability to lead the nursing team effectively and ensure high standards of care.
How to prepare for a job interview at Tempus Recruitment
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As a Head Veterinary Nurse, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed a team in the past. Highlight any experience you have in training or mentoring others.
✨Demonstrate Clinical Knowledge
Make sure to brush up on your clinical skills and knowledge relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss specific procedures you've performed and how you ensure high standards of patient care. This will show that you're not only a leader but also a competent nurse.
✨Understand the Practice Culture
Research the practice and its values before the interview. Understanding their approach to patient care and team dynamics will help you align your answers with what they are looking for. Mention how your values match theirs during the conversation.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions about the team, the practice's goals, and opportunities for professional development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
