ŠÊ˜·³Çß[‘ò

I’ve had a diverse veterinary career, including some amazing opportunities in the UK and overseas, but on reflection, I think I now have the best job in the world. Being a ŠÊ˜·³Çß[‘ò Officer is like nothing else I’ve done before. It is undoubtedly hard work, and I think all of us who have undertaken the role have battled with imposter syndrome on occasion. That said, it’s a unique and wonderful experience and with applications open for the next ŠÊ˜·³Çß[‘ò Junior Vice President, who will go on to be President (26/27), it’s absolutely one I’d recommend.

No day is the same

It’s an immense honour to represent and champion our amazing profession – influencing not only the public but also the RCVS, the UK and devolved governments, and internationally via our membership of veterinary bodies like the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe and the International Veterinary Officers Coalition.

As a ŠÊ˜·³Çß[‘ò Officer, you find yourself in amazing situations, such as in the Houses of Parliament in Westminster or Holyrood in Edinburgh lobbying for legislative change, or sat next to a Peer at dinner discussing improvements to animal welfare. We are here to make sure your voice is heard on the matters that mean the most to you and the profession.

Currently, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation, reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act and RCVS governance reform are topping the most important recurring themes for discussion, and I’m proud to be speaking up for our vets as these situations evolve. As well as lobbying politicians, we also have a role in giving our profession a voice in the media. Thankfully there is training for this, in press, radio and TV interviews. We are also incredibly well supported by an amazing ŠÊ˜·³Çß[‘ò media and campaigns team, who brief and prepare us for everything we do. During the CMA investigation, this area of work feels especially important to ensure we can communicate how we are supporting the profession.

Be a voice for the profession

I particularly value meeting with our amazing ŠÊ˜·³Çß[‘ò members at specialist division conferences, ŠÊ˜·³Çß[‘ò Congress and ŠÊ˜·³Çß[‘ò Live, or just when out and about. It’s really lovely to chat and share ideas, and it helps keep our ear to the ground – this is especially important during the presidential year when we aren’t working in practice ourselves. If you’re keen to be a voice for the profession, to lobby for change and share your experiences, do consider applying to become a ŠÊ˜·³Çß[‘ò Officer. You can make a real difference.