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UK chief vet announces plans to retire
Professor Nigel Gibbens was appointed as CVO in May 2008.
Government searching for a replacement 

After almost 10 years as the UK’s chief veterinary officer (CVO), professor Nigel Gibbens CBE has announced his plans to retire.

In a GOV.UK blog post, Prof Gibbens said: “I plan to retire at the end of February 2018 after almost ten years in post and we hope to have a successor identified in good time.

“I have had a fantastic time in a challenging and interesting job at the centre of Government, working across the Civil Service and with the private sector, with my CVO colleagues in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, and representing Defra and the UK nationally and internationally. But ten years is a good innings and it is time for me to move on.

“Do have a look at the advert, assess whether you meet the key criteria and seriously consider applying. It is a great job!”

Prof Gibbens was appointed as CVO in May 2008, following previous experience in the State Veterinary Service and in policy roles on International trade, BSE controls and animal welfare.

In his early career, Nigel worked in private practice and in government veterinary services in Belize and Yemen.

The chief veterinary officer (CVO) job is currently being advertised on Civil Service Jobs. The salary is ‘circa £120,000’ for a 37-hour flexible-working week.

The job description states: ‘As CVO UK, you will ensure that the nation is better protected against animal diseases and that Defra has strong response and recovery capabilities. You will provide strategic leadership on all elements of animal health and welfare policy and will ensure that Defra has timely access to professional veterinary input.’

For more information about the role, visit the Veredus Recruitment site. 

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RCVS announces 1CPD app update

News Story 1
 The RCVS has announced a new version of its 1CPD mobile app, with enhanced features for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to record their continuing professional development.

The mobile app includes a new 'what would you like to do?' shortcut for frequent tasks, a notification badge, and the ability to scan a QR code from the home screen to easily record an activity.

Users will be prompted to update the app from the App Store or Google Play the next time they log in. For more information, visit RCVS.org.uk 

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Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.