Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

New vice-chair of RCVS Fellowship Board elected
Professor James Wood works at the University of Cambridge.
Voter turnout was higher than in previous two elections.

James Wood has been elected as the new vice-chair of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) Fellowship Board.

A veterinary epidemiologist who leads the Disease Dynamics Unit at the University of Cambridge, Professor Wood received the most votes from Fellows during the two week voting period. Voter turnout was higher than during the past two elections.

The other candidates who stood were Ian Battersby, Rachel Dean, and Aoife Reid.

The role of vice-chair involves working with other Board members to increase the visibility of the Fellowship within the veterinary profession and more widely, as well as broadening and consolidating the Fellowship’s influence and encouraging greater diversity in its membership.

In his candidate statement, Professor Wood wrote: “I believe that the opportunities for the RCVS Fellowship have not been realised yet and I am committed to working with the new chair to promote its effective development, reputation and role.

“The Fellowship is a critical element in the success of the Royal College (non-regulatory) functions of the College.

“My experiences of leadership and high-quality research, as well as professional profile, provide a good background to work with the Fellowship Board and Chair to develop an informed and effective strategy for the Fellowship.”

Professor Wood will be formally welcomed to the Board on Fellowship Day on 28 November 2024.

Niall Connell, chair of the Fellowship Board, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Professor Wood as the new Fellowship Board Vice-Chair.

“James’ impressive credentials and experience will be tremendous assets as we work with our Board, Fellows and the College to forge a valuable and positive future for the learned society that is the RCVS Fellowship.”

Image © RCVS

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.