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4 Veterinary Surgeons 2 Registered Veterinary Nurses 3 Client Care Advisors 1 Practice Director
Digital X-ray Dental X-ray Ultrasound Fully equipped in-house laboratory
Shape the nursing structure and workflow Mentor, support, and guide colleagues Develop and standardize clinical protocols Create and deliver team training Lead on expanding nurse led clinics Contribute to a positive, empowered, and supportive team culture
Confident, compassionate, and proactive Motivated by building and shaping a team Comfortable working closely with management Keen to share knowledge and help others grow Organised, with high clinical standards A strong communicator who fosters positive team culture
Flexible working pattern, up to 40 hours per week, over 4 or 5 days (your choice) 1:4 Saturday mornings, with time back the following week No out of hours
Leadership training Clinical development Certificates CPD tailored to your interests and the needs of the practice
Stunning walks along the River Wye and Black Mountains A thriving community with independent shops and cafés A creative, welcoming atmosphere Easy connections to Hereford, Brecon, and surrounding areas
6.6 weeks annual leave, inclusive of bank holidays Increasing holiday allowance based on length of service Your birthday as a paid day off
Enhanced family-friendly policies, including maternity/paternity/adoption/shared parental and surrogacy pay Private Medical Insurance Cycle to Work scheme Initiatives focused on employee wellbeing, including discounted gym membership Non-accidental injury support
£550 CPD allowance with 24 hours paid leave pro rata Certificate Support Learning and development opportunities via the IVC Evidensia Academy Access to Vetlexicon – our online encyclopaedia provider All our Vets & Nurses can apply for research funding Infection Prevention and Control Programme Quality Improvement Programme
VDS cover RCVS fees
Pawsome Benefits – reward gateway giving discounts and cashback with 100’s of retailers Pension 5% Employee/3% Employer Discounted staff pet care
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Head Veterinary Nurse
Hay Vets, Hay on Wye, Hay-on-Wye, West Midlands
Discipline: Small Animal
Full Time
Up to £36,000 DOE
Hay Vets is entering an exciting phase of growth, and we are looking for a dedicated, confident, and compassionate Head Veterinary Nurse to join us as we continue to shape the future of our practice. This is an excellent opportunity for an RVN who enjoys leading by example, developing others, and helping to build a positive, supportive, and clinically strong nursing team.
We are a friendly, community-focused small animal practice with a genuine belief in doing right by our patients, our clients, and our team. If you are looking for a role where your voice matters and where you can truly make a difference, we would love to welcome you to Hay Vets.
About Our Current Team
Although we are growing, our team is small, close-knit, and supportive. You will be joining:
Every member of the team plays a key role in the running of the practice. Our environment is one where people genuinely look out for one another, and where everyone is encouraged to contribute ideas, question processes, and help shape how we develop. As our Head Veterinary Nurse, you will be central to this collaborative approach.
As we expand, you will be heavily involved in recruiting, mentoring, and supporting additional nursing staff. Your leadership will help set the tone for a team culture built on respect, communication, and high-quality care.
Our Facilities
We pride ourselves on investing in high-quality, modern equipment to support gold standard care. Our practice includes:
These tools enable us to offer a comprehensive service to our patients and give our team the resources they need to grow their clinical skills and confidence.
The Role of Nursing at Hay Vets
Nurses at Hay Vets are integral to how we operate. Our RVNs run a wide range of nurse consultations, supporting our longstanding client base and building trusted relationships within the local community.
Your experience as a Head Nurse will be valued and respected. We actively encourage nurse led initiatives and are proud to give our nurses genuine responsibility, autonomy, and opportunities to develop new services that enhance patient care.
As Head Vet Nurse, you will:
This is a role where your leadership can have a lasting impact — on your team, your clients, and the future of the practice.
What We Are Looking For
We are seeking an RVN who is:
You do not need previous Head Nurse experience, but you should feel ready to take that next step into leadership.
Working Hours & Salary
We understand how important work–life balance is, so we are happy to discuss a rota that works for you while supporting the needs of the team.
Professional Development
Your growth matters to us. We actively support:
If you have a particular clinical or leadership area you’d like to pursue, we will help make that possible.
Life in Hay on Wye
Hay on Wye is a vibrant, world-famous book town surrounded by beautiful Welsh countryside.
It offers:
It’s the perfect place for anyone seeking a relaxed lifestyle, outdoor adventure, and a strong sense of community.
Join Us at Hay Vets
If you are an enthusiastic and caring RVN who is excited by the chance to take the lead, support a growing team, and help shape the future of our practice, we would be delighted to hear from you.
This is not just another job — it is an opportunity to influence how a team develops, feel valued for the work you do every day, and be part of a practice where your contribution truly matters.
Because our people matter
We recognise that our people are fundamental to the success of our business. Investing in our people, premises and processes is at the heart of what we do. In addition to a competitive base salary, you will benefit from –
Work-life balance
Wellbeing
Development
Professional Memberships
Additional
Hay Vets, Hay on Wye
Greenfield Industrial Estate, Forest Rd, Hay-on-Wye, HR3 5FA, United Kingdom
Animals treated
Dogs, cats & small pets
Rabbit Friendly
At IVC Evidensia we are a committed to Diversity, Equality, Inclusion and Belonging, we are keen to hear from candidates from all minority and diverse groups. As a Disability Confident Employer, we are keen to hear from candidates with disabilities and long-term health conditions and would be happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments needed during the recruitment process.
Any questions before applying?
Speak to Elliott Burgin from our recruitment team who would be happy to help you with any questions you have before applying for this role.