Deputy Head Veterinary Nurse | Portsmouth, Hampshire

An excellent opportunity for an experienced Registered Veterinary Nurse to step into a Deputy Head Nurse position within a modern, well-equipped small animal practice in Portsmouth. This role is ideal for an RVN looking to progress clinically and operationally, while continuing hands-on nursing in a supportive, forward-thinking environment.

Key Highlights

• Deputy Head Nurse role with genuine progression opportunities.

• Modern, purpose-built practice with advanced clinical facilities.

• Supportive leadership structure and collaborative nursing team.

• Strong focus on development, governance and clinical standards.

• Competitive salary package with extensive employee benefits.

Key Details

• Role: Deputy Head Nurse (Registered Veterinary Nurse).

• Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire.

• Contract: Permanent.

• Hours: Full time, typically a four-day working week.

• Weekend Rota: 1 in 4 weekends.

• Duty Nights: On rotation.

The Role

This Deputy Head Nurse position plays a key role in supporting the Head Nurse with the day-to-day leadership of the nursing team. You'll help drive clinical standards, efficiency, governance and continuous improvement across the practice, while remaining actively involved in clinical work.

Responsibilities include:

• Supporting the Head Nurse with operational and clinical leadership.

• Maintaining high standards of patient care, nursing protocols and governance.

• Supporting and mentoring RVNs, students and support colleagues.

• Contributing to rota planning, efficiency and team development.

• Remaining hands-on with a varied clinical caseload across consulting, inpatient and surgical nursing.

Working Pattern & Flexibility

• Full-time nurses typically work a four-day week to support work–life balance.

• Shifts are nine hours and include a mix of consulting, inpatient and theatre duties.

• Weekend rota is shared on a 1-in-4 basis, with duty nights on rotation.

• Flexible working patterns can be discussed to suit individual circumstances.

What We're Looking For

• RCVS-registered Veterinary Nurse.

• Previous experience in a senior, deputy or leadership-focused nursing role preferred.

• Confident, proactive and supportive leadership style.

• Strong communication and organisational skills.

• Passion for clinical excellence, team development and continuous improvement.

Facilities & Clinical Environment

This Portsmouth-based practice is well-equipped with a broad range of facilities, including:

• Multiple operating theatres.

• Dedicated dental suite and digital imaging.

• Ultrasound and in-house laboratory facilities.

• Separate wards for dogs, cats and small animals.

• Modern monitoring equipment and expanding exotic caseload.

Salary & Benefits

• Salary range: £29,000 – £35,000 DOE.

• Profit share bonus scheme.

• Long service recognition.

• Income protection.

• Enhanced maternity pay and compassionate leave.

• Retail and lifestyle discounts.

• Overseas charity work opportunities.

• CPD allowance and professional development support.

• Health and wellbeing support programme.

The Opportunity

This is a great step for an RVN looking to build leadership experience without losing hands-on clinical involvement. You'll join a growing, supportive team in a modern Portsmouth practice that values development, collaboration and work–life balance.

If you'd like to discuss the role in confidence or apply, get in touch for further details.

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: 26-00248

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