The first cohort of participants on the Veterinary Management Group (VMG)’s new ILM-accredited qualifications have successfully achieved their Award in Veterinary Leadership and Management (AVLM).
The group, working in a variety of practice management and business leadership roles, started studying for the first module of the programme in May. Following its successful completion, they have all chosen to continue on and will now work towards achieving the Certificate in Veterinary Leadership and Management (CVLM), the second stage of the qualification. The final stage is the Diploma in Veterinary Leadership and Management (DVLM), achieved after two years.
The AVLM awardees explored four themes: leadership theories and leadership styles; motivation and reward; emotional intelligence; and personal development planning. As they move into the certificate stage, their next module will look at their organisations, examining brand, vision, mission and purpose; then explore the different external factors affecting how it operates and how successful it is. After this they can take two further optional modules from a list of 15, with the aim of completing the certificate in Summer 2022.
Mike Kitchen, business manager of the German Veterinary Clinic in Abu Dhabi, UAE, said: “A veterinary clinic requires many leadership roles and a team of individuals who willingly take on leadership responsibilities. The VMG/ILM Level 5 Award provides a wealth of knowledge and learning to better appreciate the significance of leadership within the workplace and both the positive and negative impact that leaders have on team dynamics and organizational results.
“The knowledge I have gained has already helped me to identify improvement opportunities and apply some new ideas and strategies that will support the team and further enhance our working environment.”
Commenting, Course Director Hannah Perrin said: “Our VMG/ILM participants get the best of both worlds: a highly relevant, tailor-made qualification for their role in the veterinary sector, plus a globally-recognised leadership and management qualification should they decide to diversify.
“Our first cohort enjoyed the wealth of workshops, resources and activities we offer, with expert support from their tutor. They explored different leadership styles and their impact on themselves and others. They also looked at what motivates people at work and the key elements of an enthusiastic and engaged team.
“We’re so proud of our first AVLMs. We congratulate them on their achievement and hope they will enjoy putting what they’ve learned into practice in their workplace; and look forward to supporting them as they take their next steps towards the certificate.”
The September cohort has just started their learning journey with the VMG, and the next intake will begin studying in April 2022. More information is available on the VMG website.
The VMG is the professional association for all those in leadership and management roles in the veterinary sector. It aims to empower and equip veterinary leaders and their organisations to learn, share, and grow.
