Congress audience hears how we are 'uniquely together'

VetPartners CEO Jo Malone today told 400 colleagues at our annual Congress that standing together in challenge times is what makes our group so special.

The theme of this year’s Congress, held in Manchester, is Uniquely Together to reflect what sets VetPartners apart from other businesses.

In her keynote speech on the opening day, Jo said: “Our culture and values are vital to us and have become even more important as we have expanded across Europe.

“We are led by vets and veterinary nurses who understand the profession and understand what is important. It's vital in these challenging times the veterinary profession faces that we stand together and show everyone what makes us unique.”

Practices managers, clinical directors and head nurses from our veterinary practices and animal healthcare businesses across the UK and Ireland gathered in Manchester for the two-day Congress, which will also include our annual awards.

They heard updates on learning and development opportunities, our fundraising activities and care for the environment, as well as work by our Clinical Board.

Among the attendees were Sarah Wyatt, practice manager at Hale Vets, and Jonathan Russell, who is clinical director at the Wiltshire practice, both pictured left.

Sarah said: “Coming to Congress is a great opportunity to meet people from other practices and to hear updates from across the business. “

Jonathan added: “This is my first experience of Congress and it’s been great. Getting people together is really important as it is an opportunity to see the bigger picture.”

Helen Good, clinical director at Hyndland Street Vets in Glasgow, pictured right, said: “It was reassuring to hear in Jo’s speech that we are all have the same kind of challenges, and we can find the solutions together.

“I’ve really enjoyed coming to Congress as it is really enjoyable and a great opportunity to network with others from practices. I did the Senior Leaders training so it has been great catching up with others who were on the course.”

Brothers Kieran and Christopher Cronin, who are clinical directors at All Creatures Vets in County Monaghan and County Cavan, were among team members from our Irish practices who attended Congress.

Christopher, pictured left, said: “There are a lot of challenges ahead for the veterinary profession, especially with the decrease in animals, but we are facing this all together.”

Kieran added: “It has been such a worthwhile trip from Ireland because we’ve met up with a lot of colleagues from across the group. It’s a great opportunity to meet new people and discuss ideas.”

Article by Amanda Little, PR and Communications Director. Email amanda.little@vetpartners.co.uk