Philip Lowndes looks forward to addressing the challenges ahead
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has announced Philip Lowndes MRCVS as its new board chairman.
Bristol University graduate Philip spent seven years in mixed practice before pursuing a career in the veterinary pharmaceutical industry.
Since then he has held national and international commercial roles including CEO of UK business and leading global marketing of a major international and animal health pharmaceuticals business
Commenting on his new appointment, Mr Lowndes said: “I am honoured to be elected as the next Chairman of the BVA and look forward to chairing the Board as it addresses the challenges ahead.
“The veterinary profession needs and deserves vibrant representation and it is the Board’s role to ensure that the organisation has the ability and the resources to achieve this to the benefit of our membership.
The BVA board oversees the performance of the association and is responsible for corporate and financial governance and for setting the BVA’s strategic direction. It consists of nine members including the three officers of the BVA, four directors appointed by BVA Council and up to two non-veterinary directors appointed by the board.
Philip was previously chairman of the National Office of Animal Health (NOAH) and currently sits as chairman of the both the Novartis UK Pension Trustee Board and its Investment Committee.
In 2013, he joined the BVA’s board and was re-elected by the BVA for a second term in 2016. He will be taking over from Derek Williams, who stepped down in March after seven years.
“We are delighted to announce Philip Lowndes as the new Chairman of the BVA Board,” commented BVA president Gudrun Ravetz.
“His experience and expertise in business, knowledge of the veterinary profession and involvement with BVA will be of great value as we continue to grow our membership and expand our services and support for vets, especially during the uncertainty caused by Brexit.”
Image (C) BVA
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
