Deputy Head RVN – Aylesbury

Lead with purpose. Grow with support. Thrive in a team that genuinely has your back.

If you are ready for leadership but tired of feeling stretched thin

If you are an experienced RVN who loves the clinical side, but also enjoys developing people, yet your current role leaves you juggling too much and feeling unseen, this could be the fresh start you have been hoping for. This is a place where your calm, organised approach and your desire to support others are not only valued, but central to the role.

The Opportunity

We are working with a multi discipline veterinary hospital in Aylesbury that has created a genuinely supportive, well structured nursing team. They are looking for a Deputy Head RVN who wants to balance clinical excellence with meaningful leadership, without being overwhelmed by unrealistic expectations.

You will join a large, experienced team that includes 18 RVNs, 5 SVNs, 4 VCAs and 18 vets, including certificate holders and specialists. With this many skilled colleagues around you, the aim is not to firefight, but to help shape the rhythm, culture and clinical standards of the nursing team. One dedicated admin day each week ensures you have the time and space to lead well, not just squeeze management into lunch breaks.

The practice is proud of its Silver BVA Great Workplace accreditation and invests heavily in the health, wellbeing and long term growth of its people. If you want to both care and be cared for, you will feel at home here.

Why This Role Is Different

A hospital team with genuine depth

A diverse nursing team of over eighteen RVNs means you are never carrying the load alone. Student nurses, VCAs and vets with multiple certificates create an environment where learning, teaching and collaboration happen naturally.

Modern, well equipped facilities

CT, dental x ray and a fully accredited hospital set up provide everything you need to deliver high quality care. Your clinical days will include inpatient care, anaesthesia and hands on nursing rather than constant compromise.

Leadership with structure and support

You will help manage elements of the nursing team, conduct meetings and PDRs, and support the Head Nurse with recruitment and admin. You will not be thrown in without guidance. The leadership team is experienced and genuinely invested in developing future leaders.

A location with lifestyle variety

Aylesbury sits at the foot of the Chiltern Hills, giving you equal access to countryside walks, rural villages, markets and quick train links to London. Whether you prefer coffee shops or open fields, you will find your space here.

Your Journey Here

In Your First Month

You will focus on getting to know the nursing team, understanding the hospital workflow and settling into the balance of one admin day and three clinical days. You will start supporting day to day clinical work while gradually taking on leadership responsibilities.

In Your First Three Months

You will confidently lead elements of the nursing team, run meetings with support and help shape standards within inpatient care and anaesthesia. You will understand how to prioritise your admin day so you can lead effectively without stress.

In Your First Six Months

You will be a trusted second in command to the Head Nurse, contributing to recruitment decisions, developing colleagues, and influencing the wider culture. If you enjoy coaching, there is room to develop this further.

What is On Offer

Compensation and Time Off

• Salary up to £34,000 dependent on experience
• Full time, 40 hours across 4 days
• 1 in 6 weekends
• 6 weeks paid holiday including bank holidays

Professional Development

• 600 CPD allowance per year
• Certificates encouraged and supported
• CPD and training tailored to your goals
• Clear opportunities for career progression

Comprehensive Benefits

• Health Shield contributions for a wide range of treatments
• RCVS membership plus one additional membership
• VDS cover
• Enhanced family leave
• Discounted veterinary fees
• My Perks discounts and cashback
• Free parking and cycle to work scheme
• Company sick pay
• Annual pay reviews
• Strong focus on wellbeing and team engagement

The Candor Vets Difference

At Candor, we do not push you toward roles that are not right for you. We listen, we support, and we give you the space to decide what feels like the right next chapter in your career. Our goal is simple. To help you find a workplace where you can thrive, not just cope.

Ready to Explore?

If this sounds like the kind of leadership role where you can grow, breathe and make a meaningful impact, let us have a confidential, no pressure conversation.

Job Reference DHRVN001