Mentoring programme to support female veterinary professionals
Kerry Hedley, chief operating officer at XLVets.
A new mentoring programme for women in the veterinary profession to support their career development has been launched.
Veterinary Women in Leadership is a joint collaboration between Veterinary Women and XL Vets designed to offer both mentoring and the opportunity for women at any stage of their career to become mentors.
The platform provides access to an inspiring array of mentors who have signed up to share their skills and experience with other female veterinary professionals. From running a vet practice and team management to navigating motherhood and mental wellbeing in leadership roles, the sessions can range from a one-off telephone call to regular meetings.
Commenting on her own experience of mentoring, Kerrie Hedley, chief operating officer at XLVets, said: “There is a misconception that mentoring is only for those at the beginning of their career journey, but that is simply not true.
“There is always an opportunity to learn, to be inspired by the stories and challenges overcome by others. Mentoring gives me dedicated time and space to work on personal development, which continues to be an important part of my own career development.”
The mentoring platform has been announced alongside a virtual mentor training CPD event, Women in Leadership: Mentoring Matters, which takes place on 15 September. During this event, attendees can learn about the theory of mentoring as well as the practical skills and tools required for the role.
The event will be co-hosted by Ian Harrison, executive coach and learning facilitator at Growhouse GB. For more information and to book tickets, visit
bit.ly/mentorcpd
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.
