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:
4 Veterinary Surgeons
2 Registered Veterinary Nurses
3 Client Care Advisors
1 Practice Director
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:
Digital X-ray
Dental X-ray
Ultrasound
Fully equipped in-house laboratory
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:
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
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:
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
You do not need previous Head Nurse experience, but you should feel ready to take that next step into leadership.
Working Hours & Salary
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
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:
Leadership training
Clinical development
Certificates
CPD tailored to your interests and the needs of the practice
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:
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
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
6.6 weeks annual leave, inclusive of bank holidays
Increasing holiday allowance based on length of service
Your birthday as a paid day off
Wellbeing
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
Development
£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
Professional Memberships
VDS cover
RCVS fees
Additional
Pawsome Benefits – reward gateway giving discounts and cashback with 100's of retailers
Pension 5% Employee/3% Employer
Discounted staff pet care
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
Up to £36,000 DOE