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The key to a sustainable future for the veterinary industry is better supporting professionals within it to experience success, well-being, and fulfilment in the important work they do. This deeper purpose is at the heart of a collaborative philanthropic initiative involving sponsoring partners Royal Canin and Lincoln Institute of Veterinary Business in conjunction with the Veterinary Nurses Council of Australia (VNCA).
The initiative has emerged in direct response to an extensive survey conducted by Royal Canin and VNCA, which uncovered the desire within the veterinary community for greater recognition and professional development.
The results showed Veterinary Nurses and Technicians are highly skilled professionals, with over 95% involved in ongoing studies to build on their knowledge and expand the services they can offer to pet owners in the clinic.
The Emerging Leaders Pilot acknowledges the dedication and passion of these veterinary professionals in animal welfare and seeks to provide them with the critical non-technical competencies to excel in their roles, enhance their resilience, and experience more fulfilling workplace relationships.
Recognising the industry’s needs for more targeted professional development, Royal Canin, VNCA, and Lincoln Institute of Veterinary Business have united to provide a transformative platform for a selection of Australian Veterinary Nurses and Technicians.
A total cohort of 150 VNCA members will be sponsored for this enriching experience, with an additional 50 engaging in the initiative in New Zealand through the NZVNA.
The Emerging Leaders Pilot provides participants with a bespoke delivery of 12 key modules from the Emerging Leaders program curriculum (Lincoln Institute of Veterinary Business) in a supportive learning community, with the aim of developing key non-clinical skills.
Designed to bridge the gap between formal education and the complexities of maintaining a long and impactful career, the 12-month Emerging Leaders Pilot will focus on developing skills including:
The Emerging Leaders Pilot seeks applications from individuals committed to professional growth, passionate about animal welfare, and dedicated to excellence in veterinary care to take part in this important research project.
Australian Veterinary Nurses and Technicians who are VNCA members are eligible and can apply by clicking here.
Royal Canin, Lincoln Institute of Veterinary Business, and VNCA look forward to empowering veterinary professionals to not only meet the challenges of today but also lead the way in shaping a sustainable and fulfilling future for the veterinary profession.
Dr Michael Powell is a veterinarian, business thought leader, and Director at Lincoln Institute of Veterinary Business. With more than 25 years of experience in veterinary practice, he is also the former owner of a multiple award-winning ASVA Accredited Hospital of Excellence known for its industry-leading commercial performance. Today, his professional passion lies in safeguarding animal welfare by empowering the veterinary professionals entrusted with their care. A committed advocate for the veterinary profession, Michael has led significant research into veterinarian attrition. In 2019, he completed a multinational study of 1,500 veterinary professionals, followed by the Global Veterinary Sustainability Survey in 2021. These studies revealed the scale, causes, and impacts of premature departure from clinical practice and identified opportunities to address the issue. In 2018, Michael formed and chaired the Veterinary Shortage Think Tank, helping initiate the first coordinated steps in Australasia to recognise and respond to the veterinary workforce crisis. In 2021, he led a world-first Veterinary Sustainability Pilot with Royal Canin involving 127 veterinarians across 25 countries, exploring how non-technical competency training supports resilience and professional fulfilment. Outside of work, Michael enjoys time with his family and dogs, and unwinds surfing, camping, hiking, and exploring the Sunshine Coast.
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