Job title: Learning and Development Manager
Could you introduce yourself to our members?
Hello! I’m responsible for the development and delivery of the VMG’s bespoke ILM level 5 courses – leading to the Award, Certificate and Diploma in Veterinary Leadership and Management.
During my career, I’ve worked as practice director, practice manager, nursing manager, head nurse, RVN, SVN and a receptionist – so I’ve seen practice from many different angles and recognise the impact of good leadership on all the different roles I’ve held.
My experience has helped me develop as a leader and drives me to want to bring together these different perspectives to make decisions that benefit the whole practice team.
In your experience, how does the VMG positively impact the industry?
I’ve been a member since the days when it was called the Veterinary Practice Management Association. Everyone else in practice is part of a team but the role of practice manager means we often don’t fit into any of these teams – hence the unique challenges we face.
I joined the VMG to be part of a community because having others who do the same job to chat to and discuss ideas with really helps to reduce the sense of isolation.
I’m particularly enjoying working for the VMG as it’s enabling me to give back some of the support I received earlier in my career.
What’s been your proudest moment – so far?
Achieving my Master’s in People and Organisation Development is undoubtedly my proudest moment. I focused on developing people and leadership teams through ‘relational practice’ – an approach that emphasises the importance of relationships, connection and interpersonal dynamics as the foundation for effective leadership.
My long-held interest in mental well-being led me to spend my research year looking at energy management to improve sustainability and prevent burnout in teams. My research focused on my own energy management related to my hormonal cycle and culminated in an intervention design for organisations that benefitted all genders and promoted inclusivity.
I studied for my Master’s through organisational design consultancy Mayvin with Chichester University. It was awarded to me in in April 2025.
Based on your experience, what one piece of advice would you give to members looking to develop their leadership skills (aside from studying for the VMG’s qualifications, of course!)
Don’t sit on your own trying to reinvent the wheel – instead find community! If you have the problem, you can bet your bottom dollar that someone else has had the same issue so ask and seek out peer support. Talking it over with someone else can really help to find a way forward.
What do you enjoy doing outside work?
My hobbies are many and varied because I’m not very good at sitting still! I like being outdoors, singing, writing and I am a Yoga Nidra Facilitator, so I enjoy both practicing and facilitating Yoga Nidra for others.
