Job Title: Veterinary Practice Manager / Head Veterinary Nurse
Location: USPCA Head Office, Newry
Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Salary: £35,000 – £43,000 (pro rata, depending on experience) + pension contribution
About Us
The Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (USPCA) is Northern Ireland’s leading animal welfare charity. For over 180 years, we have been dedicated to preventing cruelty, relieving suffering, and promoting kindness to animals.
The Role
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Veterinary Practice Manager / Head Veterinary Nurse to lead the clinical, operational, and financial management of the USPCA Animal Hospital.
This is a pivotal leadership role, working closely with the Senior Veterinary Surgeon to ensure exceptional clinical standards, effective service delivery, and a positive, high-performing team environment.
The role combines hands-on veterinary nursing duties with strategic leadership and operational management responsibilities.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Practice Management
- Lead the day-to-day operations of the veterinary practice
- Manage workforce planning, rotas, and resource allocation
- Oversee budgets, financial processes, stock control, and reporting
- Ensure facilities, systems, and equipment are safe and compliant
- Handle client queries and complaints to maintain excellent service standards
Clinical & Nursing Leadership
- Provide professional leadership to the veterinary nursing team
- Support high standards of patient care, safety, and welfare
- Lead staff development, supervision, and CPD for nurses and trainees
- Maintain oversight of medicines management and clinical governance
- Undertake clinical duties where required across theatre, anaesthesia, and outpatient care
Collaboration & Service Development
- Work closely with internal teams (rehoming, wildlife, customer care)
- Contribute to continuous improvement and service development initiatives
- Represent the organisation professionally at meetings and events
Governance & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with veterinary regulations, health & safety, and data protection
- Maintain accurate records and support audit readiness
- Uphold USPCA values, policies, and professional standards at all times
Person Specification
Essential
- RCVS Registered Veterinary Nurse
- Minimum 3 years post-registration experience
- Experience in a senior, leadership, or practice management role
- Strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills
- Knowledge of clinical governance, health & safety, and medicines management
Desirable
- Qualification in leadership, management, or business
- Experience in the charity or animal welfare sector
- Experience in service improvement or organisational change
Additional Requirements
- Flexibility to work occasional evenings/weekends
- Full UK driving licence and access to transport
- Commitment to continuous professional development and animal welfare
Why Join Us?
This is a unique opportunity to combine clinical excellence with leadership in a purpose-driven organisation, making a meaningful impact on animal welfare across Northern Ireland.
Pay: £35,000.00-£43,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
