Head Registered Veterinary Nurse – Irvine, Ayrshire
About the Role
An exciting opportunity is available for an experienced Head Registered Veterinary Nurse (Head RVN) in Irvine, Ayrshire, offering a salary of up to £36,000 depending on experience.
This is an excellent opportunity for an RVN ready to take the next step in their career and play a key leadership role within a progressive, supportive veterinary team.
The position offers full or part-time flexibility, from 30–40 hours per week, alongside a 1 in 4 Saturday rota and no OOH. You’ll have the opportunity to lead by example, develop the nursing team and continue building your own clinical expertise.
About the Practice
The practice forms part of a well-established veterinary team across three practices in Ayrshire, creating a strong network of clinical expertise and professional support.
The wider team includes experienced Veterinary Surgeons, RVNs, Clinical Lead Vets and Clinical Coaches, providing excellent opportunities for collaboration and development across locations.
Nursing is highly valued, with team members developing specialist interests in acupuncture, pain management, behaviour and Schedule 3 surgical procedures.
The practice is committed to providing modern clinical equipment that enables nurses to work confidently and effectively. Equipment includes multiparameter monitors, fluid pumps, blood pressure monitors and ultrasound.
A strong emphasis is placed on respect, open communication, teamwork and work-life balance, with working patterns tailored where possible to individual needs.
Responsibilities
Lead and support the nursing team as Head RVN.
Provide outstanding clinical and client care.
Set and maintain high nursing standards across the practice.
Lead by example in consultations, anaesthesia monitoring and inpatient care.
Support and mentor RVNs, student nurses and wider nursing colleagues.
Encourage continued professional development and clinical progression.
Utilise Schedule 3 skills appropriately within the practice.
Promote a positive, collaborative and supportive team culture.
Work closely with Veterinary Surgeons and the wider clinical leadership team.
Contribute to the ongoing improvement of nursing standards and services.
Help ensure colleagues have the support, resources and equipment needed to deliver excellent patient care.
Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will be an experienced Registered Veterinary Nurse who is ready to take on greater responsibility and develop their leadership skills.
They should be confident taking control when required while remaining approachable, supportive and committed to developing those around them.
The successful candidate will ideally:
Be a qualified RVN with relevant clinical experience.
Have a genuine passion for veterinary nursing.
Demonstrate strong leadership and communication skills.
Be confident mentoring and supporting colleagues.
Lead by example with excellent clinical and client care.
Be positive, energetic and team-focused.
Be proactive and comfortable taking responsibility.
Have an interest in continued clinical and professional development.
Value teamwork, mutual respect and a healthy work-life balance.
Compensation & Benefits
Salary up to £36,000 depending on experience
30–40 hours per week
Full or part-time opportunities
1 in 4 Saturday rota
No OOH
Relocation/welcome bonus available for direct candidates
Generous CPD allowance
Paid CPD days
Professional fees paid
AXA private healthcare, with family extension available
Enhanced maternity pay
Income protection
Pension scheme
Modern clinical equipment including ultrasound, multiparameter monitors, fluid pumps and BP monitors
Support from Head Nurses, Senior Nurses and an RVN Business Partner
Opportunities to collaborate across three practices
20% discount at Pets at Home and participating veterinary services
Supportive and progressive working environment
Strong focus on work-life balance and individual working needs
Why Apply
This Head RVN job in Irvine offers an excellent opportunity for an experienced nurse to step into a leadership position while remaining closely involved in hands-on clinical care.
You’ll have access to a strong network of veterinary professionals across Ayrshire, including experienced nurses and clinicians with specialist interests, providing valuable support and opportunities for development.
The role also offers genuine flexibility, with 30–40 hour contracts, full or part-time options and no OOH, making it an attractive opportunity for an RVN seeking greater responsibility without sacrificing work-life balance.
With generous CPD, paid CPD days, private healthcare and professional fee support, the package is designed to support both your career and wellbeing.
Apply Today
If you are an experienced RVN looking for a Head Veterinary Nurse opportunity in Irvine or Ayrshire, with leadership responsibility, excellent clinical support and flexible working, this could be the ideal next step in your career.
For a confidential discussion about the role, please contact:
Ollie Lear - Talent Partner
T: 07706 346515
E: ollie@supreme-ss.com