PT Deputy Head Nurse

We're looking for a confident, motivated individual who is either an existing Deputy Head Nurse or an experienced RVN ready to take the next step in their career and join our fantastic team at Market Vets, working a minimum of 22.5 hrs a week. This is a varied and rewarding role involving inpatient care, theatre duties, and nurse consultations.

We actively encourage our RVNs to fully utilise their skills, including Schedule 3 procedures. This is a great opportunity to join a supportive and experienced team where your skills and development are truly valued. In this role, you will deputise in the absence of the Head RVN, managing all aspects of the nursing team and ensuring high standards of professional conduct are upheld throughout. You will be responsible for maintaining the consistent delivery of exceptional patient care, acting as a role model and advocate for effective teamwork and communication.

Supporting the Head RVN, you will assist in the smooth day-to-day running of the practice and contribute to the implementation of nursing-related projects, ensuring all policies and procedures are followed.

About us

We are a friendly, two-site mixed practice based in North Devon, just a short drive from Exmoor and the stunning North Devon beaches. Our practice boasts modern, well-equipped facilities and a diverse range of clinical interests among our team, including exotics and orthopaedics.

We strongly encourage our nurses to pursue their individual areas of interest, and many have gone on to achieve certificates in their chosen fields. Our equipment includes an in-house diagnostic laboratory, digital x-ray, ultrasound, endoscopy, bronchoscopy, dental radiography, therapeutic laser (used in nurse-led clinics), and multiparameter monitors in theatre, enabling us to deliver high-quality, progressive care.

About the team and culture

Across our two sites, we have a mix of full- and part-time team members, including 14 vets, 11 nurses, 2 student nurses, and 11 members of our dedicated admin team. Our clinical staff bring a wealth of experience, with vets holding certificates in surgery and exotics, and nurses qualified in feline nursing, exotics, and anaesthesia.

We actively support and encourage individual interests that align with the goals and values of the practice, fostering a culture of professional growth. We're also proud to work closely with local charities, including our partnership with a local branch of Cats Protection.

Working hours

Weekday shifts vary, with the earliest start at 8:00am and the latest finish at 6:15pm. The current rota includes working 1 in 7 Saturdays from 8:30am to 5:00pm, with time off in lieu that week. You'll also be part of the second on-call rota, covering 6:00pm to 7:00pm approximately once every 7 weeks. This comes with a paid retainer fee, call-out fee, and 1.5x hourly rate for any time worked on-site. In addition, our nurses participate in late-night inpatient checks, currently 3 evenings in every 7 weeks, with appropriate compensation provided.

What we are looking for

We're seeking a Deputy Head Nurse who is proactive, enthusiastic, and approachable. The ideal candidate will be a strong team player who thrives in a collaborative environment but is also confident working independently and using their own initiative.

Because our employees 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 weeks annual leave, increasing with service, and your birthday as a paid day off.

Wellbeing initiatives include:

• Enhanced family-friendly policies, including maternity/paternity/adoption/shared parental and surrogacy pay
• Private Medical Insurance
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Discounted gym membership and employee wellbeing initiatives
• Non-accidental injury support

Development opportunities include:

• £550 CPD allowance with 22.5 hours paid pro rata
• Certificate support
• Learning and development via the IVC Evidensia Academy
• Access to Vetlexicon online encyclopaedia
• Research funding opportunities
• Infection Prevention and Control Programme
• Quality Improvement Programme

Professional memberships covered:

• VDS cover
• RCVS fees

Additional benefits include:

• Pawsome Benefits discount and cashback platform
• Pension scheme: 5% Employee / 3% Employer
• Discounted staff pet care