Head Veterinary Nurse Ayrshire, Scotland
VetSeekers
ead Veterinary Nurse Irvine, Ayrshire
An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Registered Veterinary Nurse to step into a Head Veterinary Nurse position within a well-established small animal practice in Irvine, Ayrshire.
This role offers the chance to take on a leadership position within a supportive clinical environment where nurses play a central role in patient care and practice development, with no out-of-hours and flexible working available.
Key Highlights
Salary up to £36,000 depending on experience.
Flexible working available (30–40 hours per week).
1 in 4 Saturday rota with no out-of-hours.
Supportive leadership and development environment.
Generous CPD allowance with paid CPD days.
Private healthcare and professional fees paid.
The Practice
This busy and progressive small animal practice operates across several sites within the Ayrshire area and is supported by a large and experienced clinical team.
The team environment is collaborative and supportive, with strong emphasis placed on development, communication and maintaining a positive working culture.
The wider clinical team includes:
14 Veterinary Surgeons.
12 Registered Veterinary Nurses.
2 Veterinary Care Assistants.
Clinical Lead Veterinary Surgeons and Clinical Coach Nurses.
The practices are well equipped with modern diagnostic and monitoring equipment, enabling the team to deliver high standards of clinical care.
The Role
This position is ideal for an experienced RVN looking to progress into a leadership role while continuing to remain hands-on clinically.
You will play a key role in leading the nursing team, supporting clinical standards and contributing to the smooth day-to-day running of the practice.
Typical responsibilities include:
Leading and supporting the nursing team.
Overseeing nurse consultations and inpatient care.
Monitoring anaesthesia and surgical procedures.
Supporting clinical coaching and nurse development.
Ensuring high standards of patient and client care.
Working collaboratively with veterinary surgeons and support staff.
The role offers flexible working options between 30 and 40 hours per week and includes a 1 in 4 Saturday rota with no out-of-hours commitment.
About You
RCVS Registered Veterinary Nurse.
Previous nursing experience within small animal practice.
Leadership experience desirable but not essential.
Passionate about high standards of patient and client care.
Strong communication and teamworking skills.
Motivated to support and develop colleagues.
What’s On Offer
Salary up to £36,000 depending on experience.
Flexible working opportunities.
Generous CPD allowance with paid CPD days.
Professional memberships paid.
Private healthcare scheme.
Enhanced maternity pay.
Income protection.
Pension scheme.
Staff discounts on veterinary services and retail products.
The Location
Located in Irvine, Ayrshire, the practice benefits from a great balance of coastal living, countryside access and good transport links across the wider region. The area offers a relaxed lifestyle with easy access to Glasgow and the surrounding Scottish countryside.
If you would like further information about this Head Veterinary Nurse role in Irvine, Ayrshire, or would like to arrange a confidential and informal discussion, please get in touch.
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: 26-00381
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Thanks from all of us at Vet Seekers – we look forward to supporting you!

