We’re very sad to be saying goodbye to someone who’s played a huge role in the development of the VMG over the last 13 years – as a director for nine years and as our very first chair for the last three. Yes, the inestimable Ruth Mackay is stepping down from the board to focus on the development of her own business, Rowan Veterinary Centre in Lancashire, and to continue her personal development by undertaking a coaching qualification. She also says she hopes to have more free time – though we suspect this is unlikely!
Before she leaves, we asked her to share a little of her journey with us:
“Back in 2011, one of my team was booked to attend VPMA Congress. When she left the practice, I went instead. Right from the outset I felt at home, meeting some amazing people including Howard Brown, Rita Dingwall and Pauline Graham. I loved the lecture streams and, of course, the social side. It had the same warm and welcoming vibe we all value today – with everyone determined to learn how they could improve at what they did.
“I remember vividly sitting in lectures by Anne-Marie Svendsen and suddenly realising that team performance was not about my team members – but about me and how well I was leading them. This revelation set me on a path to constantly improve as a leader.
“In 2014, I applied to join the board because I believed – and still do – that the way we lead our teams directly impacts outcomes for our patients’ health. I wanted to help drive leadership skills within the industry – at that time, a topic much less discussed or studied.
“A few years later, in January 2022, I became the VMG’s first chair. As the first, I had to create the role myself which has not been without its challenges but one of the things I’m most proud of is introducing the Brené Brown principle of ‘container building’ – creating a safe space – at the start of every board meeting. This is a short period of time set aside for frank and honest discussion that is respectful but enables challenge and disagreement. I remember at the first meeting I chaired being worried about what people would think, as it felt a bit “out there”, but, actually, everyone loved it. A lesson in not being swayed by fear about what people will think!
“I’ve loved every minute of my time with the VMG but, after three years as Chair, with a fresh group of directors on board, it’s the right time for me to step back and give an opportunity to the new team to bring in their own ideas and approaches.
“For me, the best bit has been meeting such a fantastic group of diverse, talented people over the years. They’ve consistently been both warm and welcoming and many have become close friends so I will, of course, be staying in touch. In the meantime, I wish the VMG and its members great success in this exciting next chapter!”
VMG President Rebecca Robinson said: “Ruth has been an inspiration to me with her calm, considered, yet determined and proactive approach to her roles on the board. I’ve been so grateful for her support, advice and friendship and she will be hugely missed.”
Chris White, VMG Chair: “Ruth was my predecessor as chair before passing the role on to me. She even agreed to stay on in the role for an additional 18 months to help us through a period of transition – a time when her experience and steady support were invaluable. The VMG Board won’t feel the same without her and I’ll miss her both personally and professionally – though I did extract a promise that she’d keep coming to VMG Congress so we can catch up there!”
Rita Dingwall, Past President VMG completes our thanks with these words:
“It hardly seems possible that it’s been almost 15 years since Ruth first walked through the doors of VPMA Congress and became part of the VMG family. From those early days, her warmth, enthusiasm and genuine desire to learn and make a difference shone through. It’s been a privilege to watch her grow and develop into such a respected leader, board member and our very first Chair.
“One of Ruth’s greatest strengths is her ability to listen. People feel heard when they speak to her, whether they are a new member finding their feet or an experienced colleague sharing a challenge. She has a wonderful way of bringing people together, encouraging different perspectives and creating an environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
“Alongside her professionalism and dedication, Ruth has always brought kindness, humility and good humour to everything she does. Her contribution to the VMG has been immense, but what I will remember most is the friend she has become over the years. She leaves a lasting legacy and I know I speak for many when I say she will be greatly missed, whilst being wished every success and happiness in her next adventure.”
