Head Nurse

A Head Nurse role with real clinical influence and support This is a role where you will lead the nursing team, take ownership of clinical standards, and work within a clear leadership structure. You will be supported to make decisions, expected to set standards, and trusted to influence how the practice runs day to day. Why this role exists We are looking for a Head RVN to lead our nursing team and strengthen clinical consistency as the practice continues to grow. You will be building on a positive team and driving standards forward. What makes this role different Most Head Nurse roles come with responsibility but limited control. Here, you will have:

• Ownership of nursing standards and protocols
• Control of rotas and team structure
• Input into recruitment and team development
• A clear support structure: Clinical Lead Vet (clinical) and Practice Manager (HR)
You will be trusted to lead and backed when it matters. Your role
• Lead and develop RVNs, SVNs and VCAs
• Set and maintain clinical standards consistently across the team
• Drive efficient clinical flow and decision making
• Lead performance and development conversations
• Support recruitment and progression within the team
This is leadership, not coordination. Clinical standards Our nurses are actively involved in patient management and decision making. We routinely use:
• Multiparameter monitoring (ECG, capnography, blood pressure)
• Multimodal analgesia including infusions and local techniques
• Low flow anaesthesia
• Full dental workflows including radiography and nerve blocks
• Schedule 3 procedures and nurse led clinics
• Nurse led triage
We are continuing to develop:
• Point of care ultrasound within the nursing team
• AI supported tools including HT Vista
• AI assisted clinical note taking
Your clinical role:
• Anaesthesia and theatre work
• Inpatient care and recovery
• Nurse consultations and triage
• Supporting advanced procedures
  
  Your clinical judgement will set the tone across the team.
The team
• Positive and collaborative culture
• Mix of experienced and developing nurses
• Active student nurse involvement
• Opportunity to improve consistency and standards
Development
• £750 CPD allowance with paid CPD time
• Certificate support actively encouraged
• Previous Head Nurse completed Level 7 postgraduate training in advanced surgical nursing
This is a role where you continue to develop, not plateau. Work-life balance
• 40 hours per week (including a paid 30 minute lunch break)
• 1:4 Saturdays
• No out of hours
• No overnight inpatient checks
• Overtime is recognised and paid or taken as time off in lieu
The practice
• Recently extended, modern site
• 5 consult rooms and 2 theatres
• Dedicated recovery area
• Visiting cardiology and imaging support
• Strong clinical team including CertAVP
• Growing caseload including advanced soft tissue and orthopaedics
Who this role suits
• A strong RVN stepping into leadership with confidence in their clinical ability
• Or an existing Head Nurse looking for more structure and clinical influence
You will be someone who:
• Has strong clinical reasoning and is confident making decisions
• Leads through clinical credibility, not just role title
• Is comfortable setting expectations and maintaining standards
• Enjoys developing others and improving consistency over time
Why this role stands out Most Head Nurse roles offer responsibility without support. This one offers:
• Clear structure
• Strong clinical standards
• Genuine authority
• Ongoing development