At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop a nursing team in a brand-new veterinary surgery.
- Company: Independent, family-owned veterinary group focused on exceptional care.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, CPD support, 20 days holiday, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Join a supportive environment where your voice and skills are valued.
- Why this job: Shape a new practice and make a real impact on patient care.
- Qualifications: Qualified and registered Veterinary Nurse with strong teamwork skills.
We’re opening a brand-new veterinary surgery — and we’re looking for a Head Nurse to help build and lead the nursing team from day one.
This is your opportunity to shape how nursing works in a practice — not just fit into an existing structure
Too often, Head Nurse roles are about maintaining. This one is about creating. You’ll have the opportunity to influence standards, and build a nursing team where skills are fully utilised and genuinely valued.
As Head Nurse, you’ll lead the nursing function within the surgery — ensuring high standards of clinical care, smooth day-to-day operations, and a positive, collaborative team environment.
You will:
- Lead, support and develop the nursing team
- Ensure excellent patient care and client experience
- Oversee nurse clinics, inpatient care and theatre standards
- Drive utilisation of nursing skills including Schedule 3 procedures
- Support student nurses and clinical coaching
- Help shape the culture and ways of working within the practice
- This is a leadership role with real influence — both clinically and operationally.
Working pattern
- Full-time rota with evenings and weekends 4 x 9 hour days, 1 in 4 weekend rotation
- Average working week of 39 hours
- Nurse care nights (with accommodation provided when required)
- Flexible working options considered
- We believe great nursing teams deserve to be recognised, supported and rewarded.
Professional & financial
- Monthly Nurse recognition scheme
- CPD support and development opportunities
- Funded professional fees
- Income protection
- Work-life balance & wellbeing
- 20 days holiday + bank holidays
- Enhanced maternity & paternity pay
- Compassionate leave
- Wellbeing support
About us
We are part of a nationwide, independent, family-owned veterinary group committed to delivering exceptional care in the communities we serve.
Our surgeries are modern, spacious and designed to create a calm environment for pets and a positive, collaborative space for teams.
We invest in our people, support development, and create workplaces where colleagues genuinely enjoy coming to work.
You’ll thrive in this role if you:
- Are a qualified and registered Veterinary Nurse
- Take pride in delivering excellent patient care
- Enjoy working collaboratively as part of a team
- Communicate confidently and compassionately
- Want to fully utilise and develop your nursing skills
- Are positive, proactive and adaptable
- Be part of something from the beginning
If you’re looking for a role where your voice is heard, your skills are valued, and you can help shape a brand-new practice, we’d love to hear from you.
Locations
Head Registered Veterinary Nurse in Hampshire, Portsmouth employer: The Pet Vet
At The Pet Vet Rotherham, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment where your passion for pet wellbeing can truly flourish. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to employee growth through internal leadership training and funded memberships, you will be part of a dedicated team that values collaboration and excellence in veterinary care. Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including enhanced maternity and paternity pay, income protection, and a generous holiday allowance, all while making a meaningful impact in the lives of pets and their families.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Registered Veterinary Nurse in Hampshire, Portsmouth
✨Tap into Local Healthcare Networks
Getting involved with local healthcare communities is a game-changer for nursing roles. Join nursing associations or attend local events and workshops where you can meet fellow professionals and potential employers. It’s all about building those connections – your next full-time gig could be just a chat away!
✨Showcase Your Skills in Real-Life Settings
Consider volunteering at clinics or hospitals if you can squeeze in some time. Not only does this help you gain practical experience, but it also shows your commitment to patient care. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to network and potentially land a full-time role at a facility you enjoy!
✨Use LinkedIn like a Pro
Make your LinkedIn profile pop by highlighting your nursing skills prominently. Share articles, insights, or case studies that demonstrate your knowledge in patient care. Engaging with content in nursing forums can also put you on the radar of recruiters looking for full-time talent like you!
✨Direct Applications are Key!
When you spot a role that excites you, don't hold back – apply directly through our website! Tailor your application to show off how your specific experiences align with the needs at The Pet Vet for the Head Registered Veterinary Nurse role. Companies appreciate candidates who take initiative and show genuine interest!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Qualifications:When applying for a full-time nursing role with The Pet Vet, it's crucial to highlight your nursing qualifications. Make sure to include any relevant certifications, such as your NMC registration and any specialisations. List them front and centre on your CV so we can see your expertise at a glance!
Craft a Compassionate Cover Letter:Your cover letter is the perfect place to express your passion for patient care. Talk about your experiences, how you handle challenging situations, and your approach to teamwork. This gives us insight not just into your skills but also into your caring nature, which is essential in nursing.
Emphasise Soft Skills:In nursing, technical skills are important, but we're also keen on soft skills. Make sure to highlight your communication abilities, empathy, and problem-solving skills. These attributes are often just as critical in delivering exceptional patient care and will help differentiate you from other candidates.
Tailor Your Experience to Patient Care:When detailing your experience, be specific about your direct patient care roles. Focus on the impact you’ve made on your patients’ lives—mention specific tasks, challenges you've overcame, or improvements you’ve contributed to. This helps us visualise you in action at The Pet Vet, and how you can make a difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Pet Vet
✨Brush Up on Clinical Scenarios
In nursing, you might face questions around patient scenarios, so sharpen your clinical judgment skills. Think through common cases—like managing a patient with specific needs or handling emergencies—and be ready to articulate your approach confidently.
✨Showcase Your Soft Skills
Beyond technical skills, nursing is all about communication and empathy. Prepare to share examples from your experiences that highlight your ability to connect with patients and work effectively in a team, as this is crucial for a full-time role at The Pet Vet.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Healthcare Regulations
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest healthcare regulations and policies relevant to your role. This knowledge not only shows your commitment to patient safety but also signals that you're proactive and engaged—qualities that full-time employers like The Pet Vet appreciate.
✨Ask AboutCareer Development Opportunities
Since this is a full-time position, show your ambition by asking how The Pet Vet supports growth and development. Inquire about ongoing training, mentorship programmes, or opportunities to specialise in particular areas, as this illustrates your long-term interest in nursing.
