Head Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN)

About the Role

This is a leadership opportunity for an experienced RVN ready to step up and make an impact. You’ll work in a supportive, forward-thinking environment where nursing sits at the heart of everything the practice does. Based at the Irvine practice, you’ll lead clinical care alongside a Head Nurse and the practice’s RVN Business Partner—someone who genuinely understands your role and advocates for the team.

With a 1:4 Saturday rota and no out-of-hours shifts, you’ll have genuine work-life balance while delivering exceptional patient care. The practice invests in modern clinical equipment—multiparameter monitors, fluid pumps, BP monitors, and ultrasound—so you can focus on what you do best, not fighting outdated tools.

You’ll work with a talented team of RVNs across three Ayrshire practices, many with specialist training in acupuncture, pain management, behaviour, and Schedule 3 surgical procedures. Whether you’re leading consults, managing anaesthetics, or coordinating in-patient care, you’ll be empowered and supported.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead nursing care and mentorship across the Irvine practice, setting clinical and professional standards
• Manage and monitor surgical and anaesthetic procedures with a focus on patient safety and welfare
• Deliver exceptional in-patient care and monitor post-operative recovery
• Collaborate with the Head Nurse, RVN Business Partner, and clinical team to drive continuous improvement
• Support professional development of nursing colleagues across the three-practice group
• Lead by example with outstanding clinical knowledge and client communication
• Contribute to a positive, inclusive team culture that values work-life balance

Requirements

• Qualified RVN with proven clinical experience and a genuine passion for nursing
• Demonstrated leadership ability—comfortable taking ownership and guiding colleagues
• Strong clinical and client care standards; meticulous attention to detail
• Positive, energetic attitude with team-focused values
• Willingness to engage with continuous professional development
• Not afraid to roll up your sleeves—practical, hands-on approach to the role

Benefits

• Competitive salary up to £36,000 depending on experience
• Flexible working options: full-time or part-time (30–40 hours per week)
• 1:4 Saturday rota with no out-of-hours commitments
• Generous CPD allowance with paid CPD days to invest in your professional growth
• Professional fees paid in full
• AXA private healthcare (extendable to family members)
• Enhanced maternity pay
• Income protection scheme
• Pension scheme
• Access to top clinical equipment and technology across all three practices
• Dedicated support structure: three Head Nurses, three Senior Nurses, and RVN Business Partner
• Staff discounts including 20% off Pets at Home and The Vet Group
• Strong emphasis on work-life balance and tailored rotas to suit individual needs

About the Practice

Vets for Pets operates three practices across Ayrshire under shared leadership—four partners including two veterinary surgeons, one RVN, and a practice manager. This unique structure means every role has a genuine voice in decision-making. With a 60-strong team, the practice is built on mutual respect, open communication, and a commitment to delivering excellent clinical care and client experience.

The clinical team includes 14 vets, 12 RVNs, 2 VCAs, 3 GPD-trained Clinical Lead Vets, and 3 Clinical Coach RVNs across the three sites. The practice lives its values daily: treating colleagues the way you’d want to be treated, supporting each other, maintaining open communication, and genuinely respecting individual work-life balance needs. One size doesn’t fit all—rotas and benefits are tailored to each team member.