Head Vet Nurse - Small Animal

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Lead, Inspire and Thrive in the heart of Dartford. We’re looking for an experienced and motivated Head Veterinary Nurse to join and lead our fantastic team at Easipetcare Dartford. If you’re a confident, compassionate nurse who enjoys bringing out the best in others and delivering outstanding patient care, this could be the perfect next step in your career.

Situated in the heart of Dartford, our modern, well‑equipped practice offers the best of both worlds, easy access to Central London, Kent and beyond, while being surrounded by local green spaces and community charm. With great transport links and free on‑site parking, it’s an ideal base for a rewarding and well‑balanced career.

At Easipetcare Dartford you’ll join a close‑knit, supportive nursing team with over 75 years of combined experience. We pride ourselves on being genuinely friendly and collaborative, valuing every team member’s contribution. Our nurses are the heart of the practice – skilled, compassionate and always ready to support one another.

We have a loyal client base and a varied caseload, giving you the chance to put your clinical expertise to good use while enjoying strong relationships with clients and their pets.

Modern facilities include a bright, open waiting room, three consult rooms, a spacious open‑plan prep area, a dedicated theatre for sterile procedures and a designated space for diagnostic imaging and dentistry. Advanced equipment such as ultrasound, multiparameter monitoring, ECG, digital X‑ray, an in‑house lab with microscope, Doppler and full dental facilities are all available to support gold‑standard care.

You will play a pivotal role in leading, inspiring and developing our nursing and care team. You’ll ensure the smooth running of the practice, uphold clinical standards and help us continue to deliver the best possible patient care.

Working closely with the Lead Vet, Client Care Manager, Practice Manager and Practice Director, you’ll be part of the practice’s leadership group, shaping operations and guiding continued growth and success.

This is a hands‑on role that combines clinical work with leadership and mentorship. You’ll lead by example, support our Student Veterinary Nurses and VCAs, maintain high standards of infection control and clinical governance, and ensure the team is confident, capable and motivated every day.

The Head Nurse position is 40 hours per week, across 4 or 5 days. You will participate in a 1:3 Saturday rota with time given back in lieu.

• Registered Veterinary Nurse with experience managing or supervising a team.
• Organised, proactive and confident in all aspects of clinical nursing, from anaesthesia and inpatient care to consults and client communication.
• Pride in maintaining standards, excellent communication with warmth and clarity, and a genuine fulfilment in helping others grow.
• Passionate about creating an environment where both people and patients can thrive.

We’re proud to be part of the IVC Evidensia network, giving you access to an industry‑leading learning academy, opportunities to collaborate across the UK and Europe, and ongoing CPD and career‑progression support.

At Easipetcare Dartford we believe that a happy, supported team delivers the best outcomes for patients, clients and one another. This is your opportunity to take on a fulfilling leadership role in a practice that values your skills, supports your growth and celebrates your success.

• Competitive base salary up to £38,000 (DOE).
• Work‑life balance support.
• 6.6 weeks annual leave, inclusive of bank holidays.
• Additional holiday entitlement for your birthday.
• Private medical insurance.
• Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 confidential helpline.
• Enhanced family‑friendly policies, including maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental and surrogacy pay.
• Initiatives focused on employee wellbeing.
• £550 CPD allowance with 24 hours paid CPD leave pro‑rata.
• Certificate support.
• Learning and development opportunities via the IVC Evidensia Academy.
• Access to Vetlexicon – our online encyclopaedia provider.
• All Vets & Nurses can apply for research funding.
• Infection Prevention and Control Programme.
• Quality Improvement Programme.
• Professional Memberships: VDS cover, RCVS fees.
• Company pension scheme – IVC Evidensia will make a contribution.
• Cycle to Work scheme and Green Cars Scheme to support a greener commute.
• Voluntary benefits: choose from a range of flexible options.
• Access to discounts/cashback with hundreds of participating retailers.
• Discounted treatment for your own pets at an IVC Evidensia practice.