Lort Smith’s culture is evolving, embracing new perspectives, nurturing creativity, and building a team that thrives on collaboration and mutual respect.  This is an exciting opportunity to help shape our future, where together we will foster an environment of inclusivity, innovation, and collaboration.

If you want to lead and develop a team of experienced veterinary nurses and drive positive change in a dynamic workplace, we invite you to explore our Head of Nursing Services position where you will ensure the continued delivery of high-quality veterinary services to all members of the community.

 
About Us
Lort Smith is an icon, serving Melbournians and our pets for 89 years. We are Australia’s biggest not-for-profit animal hospital treating over 27,000 animals a year across two locations. Our North Melbourne hospital was fully redeveloped in 2024, with updated facilities to support the wellbeing and operations of our hard-working staff who are committed to caring for Melbourne’s pets and their people.

About You
You are an exemplary role model, setting the standard for your team through effective leadership, mentorship, and management of the nursing staff to ensure optimal clinical performance and growth. Your strong interpersonal skills foster a collaborative environment, and your decisive nature allows you to quickly assess situations and make informed decisions. With excellent organisational abilities and strategic thinking, you prioritise resources to meet operational needs efficiently.

You’re able to manage team dynamics through clear and effective communication, demonstrating strong people management skills. All of this is balanced with a compassionate approach, supporting your team, especially in high-pressure situations.

 
About the Role
This role is full-time – 5 days per week, Monday-Friday. If you have more than 8 years’ experience in an animal hospital, busy clinic or shelter and satisfy the below criteria, then please apply directly via this job ad. 

• Lead the nursing team – including 4 head nurses, 2ICs and a total head count of approx. 65 nurses, both permanent and casual, across 4 departments within the hospital space.
• Act as a role model for staff, communicating clinical and professional expectations and holding staff accountable for meeting these expectations.
• Work with Head Nurses to manage issues relating to nursing standards or conduct.
• Working with the Rostering & Workforce Coordinator, ensure optimal rostering and workflows across departments to ensure patient care and operational requirements are maintained 24/7, 365 days per year.
• Work with Head Nurses to ensure appropriately qualified staff are available to meet operational demands.
• Collaborate with the Nursing Training Coordinator to identify employee competency gaps and plan and implement appropriate training and development.
• Implement, maintain and review all relevant clinical and non-clinical policies, processes and procedures ensuring alignment with regulatory standards.
• Manage the performance reviews and reclassification process in accordance with the Lort Smith Enterprise Agreement.

 

What you bring

• Minimum of 8 years in an animal shelter, veterinary practice or hospital environment, including leadership roles
• Formal qualifications in Veterinary Nursing – Bachelor of Nursing or Certificate IV Vet Nurse (essential)
• Experience in leading a large team of veterinary nurses
• Strong communication skills
• High emotional intelligence and self-awareness
• Additional study or qualifications in business management, leadership or similar discipline will be highly regarded

 

What we offer

• Wellbeing support and highly regarded EAP
• Discounts on veterinary treatment and products
• Pet friendly policies

To learn more about Lort Smith and the work we do, please visit: www.lortsmith.com or look us up on Instagram.

If you are excited about the prospect of leading our team of nurses then please apply directly via this job and you must include a cover letter along with an up-to-date resume.

Contact us via careers@lortsmith.com if you'd like us to send you a position description.

Lort Smith is a great place to work. We are an equal opportunity employer and actively support workplace diversity, equity and inclusion. 

 

 

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