Richard Casey MBA has been appointed executive director of the WSAVA.

Leadership advocate Richard Casey will accelerate delivery of the WSAVA’s goals.

The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) has appointed Richard Casey MBA as its new executive director.

Mr Casey, who is also senior vice president of the Veterinary Management Group (VMG), joins the association with a brief to accelerate the WSAVA's global community of veterinary peers and to advocate issues of concern affecting companion animal vets across the globe. 

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Casey said: “When I first joined the veterinary world in the UK back in 2011, I was inspired by the energy, passion and sense of purpose ingrained in members of this unique community. 

“Now, I’m even more inspired to see this same energy and passion in evidence at a global level. It shows that the veterinary sector truly is a global community - but it’s a community whose members face different challenges, depending on the region of the world in which they work.

"Many colleagues, for instance, struggle to gain access to continuing professional development – and even access to the essential drugs they need to treat their patients. This must change and the WSAVA is working hard to bring about this change”.

Before joining the veterinary industry, Mr Casey worked for several blue-chip firms in human resources and leadership roles. He has since worked for the PDSA and the Blue Cross, the latter of which included the delivery of significant change management programmes.

During his presidency of the the VMG from 2020-2022, he led the successful transformation of the association, despite his presidential term coinciding with the most serious stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK.

Mr Casey is also a regular speaker and writer on issues relating to veterinary leadership and holds an Executive MBA and a Postgraduate Certificate in Strategic Management and Leadership. He is currently researching his Doctorate in Business Administration.

WSAVA President Dr Siraya Chunekamrai said: “Richard brings to us not only a deep understanding of the veterinary sector but also of the key role of associations in facilitating positive change. 

"In these turbulent times, the WSAVA’s role in supporting our profession globally and in raising standards of companion animal care has never been more important. We are delighted to welcome him and look forward to even more exciting times ahead.”

Image (C) WSAVA.