Deputy Head Nurse – Doncaster, South Yorkshire

An excellent opportunity for an experienced Registered Veterinary Nurse to step into a Deputy Head Nurse position within a busy, modern small animal practice in Doncaster. This role is ideal for an RVN looking to take the next step into leadership while remaining hands-on clinically, supporting both patient care and the wider nursing team.

Key Highlights

• Deputy Head Nurse role within a well-established small animal practice.
• Strong clinical and leadership balance with hands-on nursing duties.
• Clear progression and leadership development opportunities.
• Supportive, team-focused working environment.
• Competitive salary with a comprehensive benefits package.

Key Details

• Role: Deputy Head Nurse (Registered Veterinary Nurse).
• Location: Doncaster, South Yorkshire.
• Hours: Full time, 39–40 hours per week.
• Weekend Rota: 1 in 4 weekends.
• Additional Duties: Duty nights on rotation.
• Contract: Permanent.

The Role

This Deputy Head Nurse position plays a key role in supporting the Head Nurse with the day-to-day clinical and operational running of the practice. You will help drive clinical standards, support team development, and contribute to the smooth and efficient running of the nursing department.

Responsibilities will include:

• Supporting and deputising for the Head Nurse when required.
• Assisting with clinical governance, efficiency, and continuous improvement.
• Leading by example in delivering excellent patient and client care.
• Supporting, mentoring, and developing RVNs, student nurses, and support staff.
• Maintaining high clinical, hygiene, and compliance standards.
• Remaining actively involved in clinical nursing duties across consults, theatre, inpatient care, and diagnostics.

What We're Looking For

• RCVS-registered Veterinary Nurse.
• Previous experience in a senior or leadership nursing role preferred.
• Confident all-rounder across consults, theatre, inpatient and ward nursing.
• Strong communication and organisational skills.
• A collaborative, supportive approach to team leadership.
• A genuine interest in clinical standards, development, and team progression.

Salary & Benefits

• Salary: £30,000 – £35,000 DOE.
• Profit share bonus scheme.
• Long service recognition.
• Income protection.
• Enhanced maternity pay and compassionate leave.
• CPD allowance and professional development support.
• Retail discounts and employee reward schemes.
• Health and wellbeing support services.

Why This Role?

This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious RVN who enjoys mentoring others, shaping clinical standards, and contributing to a positive team culture—while still keeping their clinical skills sharp in a busy, well-equipped practice environment.

If you're looking to progress your nursing career into leadership while remaining hands-on, this role offers the structure, support, and development to do exactly that.

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: 26-00246

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