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VMG expands board of directors
“We’re delighted to welcome our new board members, who bring us additional valuable skills in key areas such as marketing, communications and change management." Liz Somerville
Seven new members have joined the leadership team.

The Veterinary Management Group (VMG) has introduced seven new members to its board of directors.

The directors, whose appointments will be formally confirmed at the VMG’s Annual General Meeting, are expected to bring additional expertise and experience to the leadership team.

Among the new members is Claire Smith, the owner of independent practice Beacon View Vets. Ms Smith champions veterinary leadership and management, and supports more diverse journeys into the profession.

James Portsmouth is a principal referral vet for the not-for-profit organisation Animal Trust, and holds an interest in organisational culture, change management and manager training.

Andrew Whitfield-Roberts is head nurse at a White Cross dual site, and holds a diploma in coaching. He champions the role of veterinary nurses in practice.

Leah Morley is also a veterinary nurse, having qualified in Australia. Ms Morley has since worked in regional leadership roles across the UK and is a member of the British Veterinary LGBT+ committee.

Another veterinary nurse joining the team is Louise Newman, a team leader at Blue Cross’ flagship animal hospital in London and Petplan’s Practice Manager of the Year in 2023.

A certified team coach, Helen Mason specialises in Women’s Leadership and Working Parents. Ms Mason’s focus will be on building trust within teams and improving performance.

Also joining the team is Christy Lightley. Ms Lightley is head of marketing at IMV Imaging and says she is focused on educating and motivating teams.

VMG president Liz Somerville said: “We’re delighted to welcome our new board members, who bring us additional valuable skills in key areas such as marketing, communications and change management. Their knowledge and experience will help us better support both our members and the wider veterinary profession as we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.

“The VMG leadership team is looking forward to meeting members and colleagues face-to-face for energising discussions on all aspects of veterinary leadership at VMG Congress in April, which will, once again, offer two days of learning, sharing and inspiration to all.”

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

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News Shorts
RVC leads globally for Veterinary Science

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has retained its lead in Veterinary Science education in the QS World University Rankings 2025.

The college scored 100 for its Academic Reputation and increased its Employer Reputation to 91.7 points. It also maintained high scores for Citations per Paper and H-Index.

RVC says that its score recognises its students' employability and the institution's standing with employers. It also highlighted the impact that its graduates and alumni are making in the sector.

Stuart Reid CBE, president and principal of RVC, said: "We are dedicated to maintaining the teaching, learning and research that takes place at the RVC.

"I am delighted that the effort from all our staff and students has once again led to a great outcome in the QS rankings; it is a privilege we do not take for granted."

The full rankings can be found here.