All our past presidents and directors have made a lasting impact on leadership and management within the veterinary profession – but none has shaped it as profoundly as the inspirational Rita Dingwall. This is why we’re delighted to celebrate her recent award of Honorary Associateship of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) – one of the highest honours it awards to non-vets.
Since starting out as a practice secretary, Rita’s 30-year career has seen her rise to become one of the most influential figures in veterinary leadership. From 2005 to 2007, she served as President of the Veterinary Practice Management Group – as we were then known. Her tenure was marked by tireless efforts to build a supportive professional community, in which both clinical and non-clinical staff worked as one collaborative and integrated team.
She also worked to elevate the role of practice management, especially within equine practices. In 2008, her contribution was recognised with the Veterinary Business Journal’s Practice Manager of the Year award.
In the years since, Rita has continued to enhance the profession in a range of roles, including guiding practices through the RCVS Practice Standards Scheme, working as a BVA Great Workplace assessor and mentoring the next generation of veterinary leaders.
As Chair of the Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices, she represents independent practices on national platforms, bringing wisdom, balance and advocacy into discussions about the future of the profession.
We’re honoured to count Rita among our past presidents and celebrate a career that has not only earned one of the profession’s highest recognitions but also paved the way for the veterinary leaders of today and tomorrow.
Congratulations, Rita – and thank you for all you have achieved!
Rita says: “I was deeply honoured to be awarded Associateship of the RCVS – a recognition that marks the pinnacle of my career. My time with the VPMA, and especially my term as President, played a pivotal role in that journey and I wholeheartedly encourage anyone with aspirations in veterinary leadership to consider becoming a member of the VMG.
“To all the practice leaders and managers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep our veterinary practices running smoothly – often the unsung heroes of our profession – this award is for you.”
