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VMG expands board of directors
“We’re delighted to welcome our new board members, who bring us additional valuable skills in key areas such as marketing, communications and change management." Liz Somerville
Seven new members have joined the leadership team.

The Veterinary Management Group (VMG) has introduced seven new members to its board of directors.

The directors, whose appointments will be formally confirmed at the VMG’s Annual General Meeting, are expected to bring additional expertise and experience to the leadership team.

Among the new members is Claire Smith, the owner of independent practice Beacon View Vets. Ms Smith champions veterinary leadership and management, and supports more diverse journeys into the profession.

James Portsmouth is a principal referral vet for the not-for-profit organisation Animal Trust, and holds an interest in organisational culture, change management and manager training.

Andrew Whitfield-Roberts is head nurse at a White Cross dual site, and holds a diploma in coaching. He champions the role of veterinary nurses in practice.

Leah Morley is also a veterinary nurse, having qualified in Australia. Ms Morley has since worked in regional leadership roles across the UK and is a member of the British Veterinary LGBT+ committee.

Another veterinary nurse joining the team is Louise Newman, a team leader at Blue Cross’ flagship animal hospital in London and Petplan’s Practice Manager of the Year in 2023.

A certified team coach, Helen Mason specialises in Women’s Leadership and Working Parents. Ms Mason’s focus will be on building trust within teams and improving performance.

Also joining the team is Christy Lightley. Ms Lightley is head of marketing at IMV Imaging and says she is focused on educating and motivating teams.

VMG president Liz Somerville said: “We’re delighted to welcome our new board members, who bring us additional valuable skills in key areas such as marketing, communications and change management. Their knowledge and experience will help us better support both our members and the wider veterinary profession as we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.

“The VMG leadership team is looking forward to meeting members and colleagues face-to-face for energising discussions on all aspects of veterinary leadership at VMG Congress in April, which will, once again, offer two days of learning, sharing and inspiration to all.”

Image © VMG

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FIVP launches CMA remedies survey

News Story 1
 FIVP has shared a survey, inviting those working in independent practice to share their views on the CMA's proposed remedies.

The Impact Assessment will help inform the group's response to the CMA, as it prepares to submit further evidence to the Inquiry Group. FIVP will also be attending a hearing in November.

Data will be anonymised and used solely for FIVP's response to the CMA. The survey will close on Friday, 31 October 2025. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
CMA to host webinar exploring provisional decisions

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is to host a webinar for veterinary professionals to explain the details of its provisional decisions, released on 15 October 2025.

The webinar will take place on Wednesday, 29 October 2025 from 1.00pm to 2.00pm.

Officials will discuss the changes which those in practice may need to make if the provisional remedies go ahead. They will also share what happens next with the investigation.

The CMA will be answering questions from the main parties of the investigation, as well as other questions submitted ahead of the webinar.

Attendees can register here before Wednesday, 29 October at 11am. Questions must be submitted before 10am on 27 October.

A recording of the webinar will be accessible after the event.