At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate team in delivering high-quality veterinary care and support clinical operations.
- Company: Respected independent veterinary group with a focus on teamwork and professional development.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day work week, generous holiday, and a £500 CPD allowance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal welfare while leading a supportive and collaborative team.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in veterinary nursing leadership and RVN qualification required.
- Other info: Join a dynamic practice with excellent facilities and a commitment to ongoing development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Swindon
We are delighted to be recruiting on behalf of a respected, long-standing independent veterinary group. Operating across three sites, including a newly opened gold-standard cat-only clinic, this practice is committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate care with an emphasis on affordability, teamwork, and continuous professional development. With 38 staff members, including a dedicated nursing team of 17, the practice offers a supportive environment, strong management structures, and excellent facilities that allow the majority of cases to be handled in-house without referral. This is also a recognised teaching practice with an open, collaborative culture.
We are seeking an experienced, motivated Head Veterinary Nurse to lead clinical standards, support the nursing team, and drive the development of protocols and training across all three sites.
The Role
As Head Veterinary Nurse, you will be responsible for providing leadership, structure, and support across the nursing team and clinical operations. Working closely with the senior veterinary team, practice manager, and clinical manager, you will play a key role in maintaining high clinical standards and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead on clinical standards and development of clinical protocols across all sites.
- Induct, supervise, and support all clinical staff across the three practices.
- Manage HR and resource-related responsibilities including contributing to overall clinical and practice management.
- Ensure compliance with all RCVS standards and requirements.
- Act as an experienced Clinical Coach, supporting student nurses and team development.
- Provide high-quality client care and consulting when required.
Requirements
- Minimum 5 years experience in a leadership role within veterinary nursing.
- RVN qualification is essential.
- Additional qualifications such as RPA, RLA or leadership/management training are desirable.
- Must be an experienced Clinical Coach.
- Strong consulting skills and excellent client communication.
- Ability to coach, mentor and inspire the wider veterinary team.
- Commitment to ongoing development; further qualifications are encouraged.
Desirable Personal Qualities
- Organised, efficient, and proactive.
- Passionate about animal welfare and clinical best practice.
- Compassionate communicator who supports clients and colleagues.
- Motivational team player who thrives in an open, supportive culture.
- Someone who values a healthy work-life balance and brings positive energy to the team.
Working Pattern and Benefits
- 4-day working week: 8:30am–7:00pm
- Additional 1 in 5 rota for hospitalised patient care
- No out-of-hours emergencies; OOH cover managed externally
- 5 weeks holiday + bank holidays
- VDS and RCVS fees covered
- Generous employee discount
- Annual performance-based pay reviews
- Company pension scheme
- A GBP 500 CPD allowance
Head Veterinary Nurse in Swindon employer: TipTopJob
Contact Detail:
TipTopJob Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Veterinary Nurse in Swindon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the veterinary field, attend local events, and join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your achievements, case studies, and any leadership roles you've held. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your commitment to high clinical standards.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses and boost your confidence. Focus on how you can lead and inspire a team, as well as your passion for animal welfare.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find the right role that matches your skills and aspirations. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our supportive and collaborative culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Veterinary Nurse in Swindon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Head Veterinary Nurse role. Highlight your leadership experience, clinical coaching abilities, and any relevant qualifications to show us you’re the perfect fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about veterinary nursing and how your values align with our commitment to high-quality, compassionate care. Keep it personal and engaging!
Showcase Your Team Spirit: We love a good team player! In your application, share examples of how you've supported and motivated your colleagues in previous roles. This will help us see how you can contribute to our collaborative culture.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at TipTopJob
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your veterinary nursing knowledge, especially around clinical standards and protocols. Familiarise yourself with the specific practices of the group you're interviewing with, as well as any recent developments in veterinary care that could be relevant.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As a Head Veterinary Nurse, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Prepare examples from your past experience where you've successfully led a team, managed clinical operations, or developed training protocols. This will show them you’re ready to take charge.
✨Communicate with Compassion
Since this role involves client care and team support, practice how you communicate your passion for animal welfare and your approach to client interactions. Be ready to discuss how you handle difficult conversations with clients or mentor junior staff.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the practice's culture, ongoing professional development opportunities, and how they maintain high clinical standards. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.