Head Veterinary Nurse (RVN) – Small Animal
Location: Swindon | Salary: Up to £38,000 DOE
Are you an experienced RVN ready to take the next step into leadership, or an established Head Nurse looking for a fresh challenge within a genuinely supportive independent practice?
Were working with a well-established independent veterinary group in Swindon that is seeking a dedicated and motivated Head Veterinary Nurse to lead and inspire an exceptional nursing team across three thriving sites, including a brand-new gold-standard feline-only clinic.
With a team of 38 professionals, including 17 nurses, this practice prides itself on delivering an outstanding standard of patient care whilst fostering a positive, collaborative, and teaching-focused culture.
The Role
As Head Veterinary Nurse, you will play a key role in both the day-to-day nursing function and the wider leadership of the practice.
Your responsibilities will include:
Leading, supporting, and developing a large nursing team across multiple sites
Promoting and maintaining the highest standards of patient care and clinical nursing
Supporting the implementation and review of clinical protocols and procedures
Working closely with the veterinary and management teams to ensure smooth practice operations
Acting as a mentor and role model for RVNs, SVNs, and support staff
Supporting recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and team development
Encouraging utilisation of Schedule 3 procedures and professional growth within the nursing team
Overseeing compliance with RCVS standards and maintaining excellent clinical governance
Supporting and coaching student nurses through their training and development
About You
The ideal candidate will be:
A qualified RVN with at least 5 years of clinical nursing experience
Currently working in a senior nursing role or looking to progress into a Head Nurse position
Passionate about delivering exceptional patient and client care
A confident communicator with strong leadership and organisational skills
An advocate for nurse progression, utilisation, and team development
Experienced as a Clinical Coach (preferred)
Motivated to create a positive, supportive, and collaborative workplace culture
Additional qualifications in leadership, management, ECC, anaesthesia, behaviour, feline nursing, or similar disciplines would be welcomed but are by no means essential.
Why Join This Practice?
Independent veterinary group with a strong clinical reputation
Excellent support from experienced vets, nurses, and management
Large, skilled nursing team with a genuine focus on collaboration
Fantastic opportunities for CPD and professional development
Encouragement and support for certificates and further qualifications
Modern facilities with a high level of in-house capability
Open, supportive culture where ideas and innovation are welcomed
A practice that genuinely values its nursing team
Why Swindon?
Situated on the edge of the beautiful Cotswolds, Swindon offers excellent transport links to Bath, Bristol, Oxford, London, and beyond. With affordable housing, excellent schools, green spaces, and plenty of amenities, its an ideal location for those seeking a great work-life balance.
If youre looking for a leadership opportunity where you can truly influence clinical standards, support and develop a talented team, and be part of an independent practice that values its people, wed love to hear from you.
For a confidential discussion or further information, please contact Hannah at Help Search Locate.
12/08/2026
Swindon