Head Veterinary Nurse – Chelmsford, Essex

Salary up to £35,000 DOE
Senior leadership role within a busy, well-established practice
Hands-on clinical work alongside team leadership
Strong focus on mentoring, development and team wellbeing
Excellent CPD support and clear progression pathways

The Opportunity

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and motivated Head Veterinary Nurse to join a well-established small animal practice in Chelmsford, Essex.

The role is ideal for a confident RVN who is passionate about delivering high clinical standards while also enjoying the responsibility of leading, mentoring and developing a nursing team. You will play a key role in shaping the day-to-day running of the practice and supporting a positive, collaborative working environment.

The Role

As Head Nurse, you will remain hands-on clinically while also taking accountability for the leadership and development of the nursing team.

Responsibilities include leading nurse-led consultations and Schedule 3 procedures, supporting consults, surgeries and diagnostics, overseeing inpatient care, and managing admissions and discharges. In addition, you will take ownership of nurse rotas, workflow, training and ongoing professional development, working closely with the wider leadership team to maintain high clinical, regulatory and operational standards.

This is a full-time, permanent position.

What We're Looking For

• RCVS-registered Veterinary Nurse

• Previous experience in a senior or leadership nursing role

• Confident leading, mentoring and supporting a nursing team

• Strong organisational and communication skills

• High clinical standards with a proactive, supportive leadership style

• Commitment to team wellbeing and continuous improvement

Location

Based in Chelmsford, Essex, the practice benefits from a well-connected location with excellent transport links and local amenities. The area offers a strong balance of affordability, accessibility and lifestyle, making it an attractive place to live and work.

Salary & Benefits

• Salary up to £35,000 DOE

• 5 weeks' annual leave plus bank holidays, rising with length of service

• Additional paid "Day for You” each year

• £750 CPD allowance plus 2 paid CPD days

• Funded certificates and structured internal career pathways

• RCVS and VDS fees paid

• Health Cash Plan from day one

• 24/7 counselling and wellbeing support

• Life assurance (3× salary)

• Cycle to Work scheme

• Season ticket loans

• Staff discounts on products and services

Must Haves

• RCVS Registered (or soon to be)
• Possess the right to work in the United Kingdom
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

What Happens Next?

CLICK APPLY NOW or if you have any questions before applying, or if this role isn't quite right for you, feel free to contact the Vet Seekers team to chat through your veterinary career aspirations in confidence.

Quote job reference: 26-00173

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