Lead RVN - Mat leave cover

Job Title: Lead Registered Veterinary Nurse (Maternity Cover)

Salary: £39,000

Location: Village Vet Highgate

Hours: Full time

8-hour shifts on a rota basis, including early and late shifts.
Late shifts run 11:00am – 7:30pm.
Practice operates until 7:30pm.

Village Vet Highgate is a busy, well-established first opinion practice seeking an experienced RVN to step into a Lead Nurse position on a fixed-term maternity cover basis. This is an excellent opportunity to join a high-performing, close-knit team delivering a wide range of clinical services and maintaining high standards of patient care.

The practice is known for managing a varied and complex caseload in-house, supported by an experienced veterinary team and a collaborative working environment.

Overview

As a Lead Registered Veterinary Nurse, you will play a key role in both the clinical delivery and leadership of the nursing team. You will work closely with the Lead Vet and wider team to ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the practice while maintaining high standards of patient and client care.

This is a predominantly clinical role, with additional responsibility for team coordination, workflow management, and supporting junior team members.

Main Purpose & Goals

• Deliver high standards of patient care through strong clinical practice
• Provide leadership and support to the nursing and support teams
• Contribute to the efficient day-to-day running of a busy practice
• Support a positive, collaborative, and high-performing team environment
• Maintain excellent client communication and service standards

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Duties

• Support vets with a wide range of procedures and cases
• Provide inpatient care and monitoring
• Deliver high-quality nursing care across a varied caseload
• Assist with advanced procedures, including complex surgeries and dentals
• Maintain accurate and thorough clinical records

Leadership & Team Management

• Support and guide RVNs and PCAs within the team
• Assist with rota awareness and day-to-day team coordination
• Liaise with the Lead Vet on operational and clinical matters
• Promote a positive and collaborative team culture
• Provide mentoring and support to less experienced team members

Operational Responsibilities

• Ensure efficient workflow within a busy practice environment
• Support the smooth running of daily operations
• Maintain high clinical and operational standards
• Work collaboratively with all departments, including reception and clinical teams

Client Care

• Deliver excellent client service and communication
• Support the client journey from admission through to discharge
• Provide clear updates and guidance to clients

Team Structure

• 3 Vets
• 2 RVNs (in addition to this role)
• 1 PCA
• 2 Receptionists
• 1 Hydrotherapy Nurse

The team is highly collaborative, with a strong culture of mutual support across all departments.

About the Role

• Fixed-term contract (up to 12 months)
• Duration dependent on return of permanent post-holder
• Opportunity to gain leadership experience in a busy, well-equipped practice
• Exposure to a varied and advanced clinical caseload

Future Opportunities

While this is a maternity cover position, there may be potential for alternative roles within the practice as the team evolves, though these may not be at Lead level.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified and Registered Veterinary Nurse
• Previous experience in a busy clinical environment
• Confidence in supporting a varied caseload
• Strong communication and organisational skills
• Interest in leadership and team development

Village Vet Highgate offers a supportive and engaging environment, providing an excellent opportunity for an experienced RVN to develop leadership skills while working within a dynamic and collaborative team.

Village Vet Highgate is part of Linnaeus and Mars Veterinary Health, the world’s largest family-owned veterinary group. We are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive workplace where our people can thrive and deliver the highest standards of care.

All applications with the relevant skills and qualifications will be carefully considered.

If you would like to apply, please click Apply, or for an informal discussion, contact our Nursing Talent Acquisition Business Partner:

Purvi Kataria

📧 Purvi.Kataria@linnaeusgroup.co.uk

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