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New VMG president to promote non-clinical skills
(Caption here)
Rebecca Robinson made her inaugural speech at the VMG Congress.

The new president of the Veterinary Management Group (VMG) has committed to championing non-clinical skills across the veterinary team during her presidency.

Rebecca Robinson VetMB MRCVS made her inaugural speech during this year's VMG Congress, which took place from 24-25 April in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Ms Robinson has over two decades of experience in clinical practice and leadership. She is also a Platinum Academy Consultant and is lead coach on the Vet Graduate Academy at Vet Dynamics.

In her speech, Ms Robinson addressed the 'transformational' impact of training in leadership, management and communication. She said that she had seen colleagues across the sector to improve their confidence, productivity and work-life balance through their personal development.

She said that success was dependent on leaders being provided with the right tools and knowledge.

Ms Robinson said: “If we want veterinary teams to truly thrive - individually and collectively - we must prioritise personal leadership development. The benefits are clear: stronger teams, healthier businesses, and ultimately, better care for our patients.

“I will be working with my fellow VMG directors this year to drive this message home and to support our members – and others in the sector – to develop their own non-clinical skills and those of their teams.”

VMG Congress 2025 also saw the release of the latest State of UK Veterinary Leadership report.

The report revealed that 92 per cent of those recently promoted to leadership roles felt that their leadership skills were 'basic'. Forty-seven per cent said their skills were 'intermediate', while only 2 per cent said they were an 'expert'.

The congress hosted an educational programme, including VMG's own 'walk and talk' session along the River Avon. The session was designed to promote informal networking among veterinary leaders, inviting them to reflect on their management careers.

Delegates also celebrated those who had recently graduated from VMG's Level 5 Certificate in Veterinary Leadership and Management (CVLM).

Image © VMG

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
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The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.