Head Veterinary Nurse - Surgery
Southern Counties Veterinary Specialists, Ringwood, South East
Discipline: Surgery
Full Time
£18.90 - 19.60/hr DOE

THE QUALITIES WE’RE LOOKING FOR

We are seeking an experienced and confident Registered Veterinary Nurse with strong surgical and anaesthesia knowledge, alongside demonstrable leadership experience. You will combine excellent organisational and problem-solving skills with an empathetic, people-focused approach to management, supporting your team to grow while maintaining accountability and high standards.
You will be comfortable working under pressure in a busy referral environment, with the ability to respond effectively to challenges and make sound decisions. Previous referral experience is desirable, and a certificate in surgery or anaesthesia would be advantageous, but we would also welcome applications from candidates from large, busy first opinion hospitals with strong surgical foundations and the drive to further develop their expertise.
Above all, you will be passionate about patient care, invested in your team’s development, and motivated to lead by example in line with the values of IVC Evidensia.

• Providing clinical leadership and support to the surgical nursing team, acting as a role model and mentor.
• Managing daily workflow, staffing, and resources to ensure safe and efficient surgical lists.
• Overseeing surgical equipment, stock, and theatre protocols, ensuring compliance with SOPs and health & safety standards.
• Supporting recruitment, induction, performance reviews and professional development for the team.
• Scrubbing in and providing advanced perioperative nursing care where needed.
• Working collaboratively with clinicians, the senior nursing team and other departments to maintain a smooth and efficient service.