Head Veterinary Nurse

About the Role

This is a hands-on leadership opportunity combining clinical nursing with responsibility for the nursing function across the practice. You’ll split your time between active theatre, anaesthesia, inpatient care, and nurse clinics—while also guiding a small, close-knit team to develop their skills and maintain high clinical standards. Your voice will shape how things work here, and you’ll collaborate directly with the vets and Practice Manager to build a positive, supportive culture.

Based in a charming village practice with modern facilities, you’ll also have access to the wider support network of IVC Evidensia’s other sites and resources, so you’re never isolated in your leadership role.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the nursing team, supporting performance, development, and wellbeing
• Oversee stock control, ordering, and supplier relationships
• Ensure equipment maintenance and regulatory/clinical compliance across the practice
• Actively participate in theatre, anaesthesia, inpatient care, and nurse clinics
• Drive best practice and foster a collaborative, supportive team environment
• Work with vets and Practice Manager to maintain and develop clinical standards

Requirements

• Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) with strong general practice experience
• Confident, organised, and proactive leadership approach
• Passionate about high-standard nursing care and animal welfare
• Comfortable supporting and guiding a small team
• Keen to continue developing clinically and professionally

Benefits

• Salary: Up to £35,000 depending on experience
• Work-life balance: 6.6 weeks annual leave (including bank holidays), paid birthday day off, and increasing holiday with service
• Flexible working: Choice of five 8-hour days or four 10-hour days per week
• Health & wellbeing: Private Medical Insurance, 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, Cycle to Work scheme, Green Cars scheme, family-friendly policies (maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental, surrogacy pay)
• Professional development: £550 CPD allowance with 24 hours paid pro rata, certificate support, IVC Evidensia Academy access, Vetlexicon online resource, infection prevention and control programme, quality improvement programme
• Professional memberships: VDS cover and RCVS fees paid
• Pension: Company scheme with employer contribution
• Additional perks: Pawsome Benefits discount programme, discounted staff pet care

About the Practice

Cherry Tree Vets is a thriving small animal practice nestled in the charming village of Lane End. Operating from a beautiful 1900s building that’s been home to the practice for over a decade, it combines community warmth with modern clinical capabilities including digital and dental X-ray and ultrasound. The practice is a trusted local fixture, known for delivering compassionate, high-quality care.

As part of the IVC Evidensia group, Cherry Tree benefits from the support, resources, and opportunities of a major organisation while maintaining the authentic feel of a friendly, close-knit village practice. The nursing team is small and collaborative, making this an ideal setting for someone ready to lead with genuine impact.