VMG Congress celebrates qualification graduates
Fifteen students received their diplomas at this year's congress.
The Veterinary Management Group (VMG) highlighted qualified veterinary leaders at this year’s VMG Congress.
The event, which ran from 22-24 April 2026 at Crowne Plaza Hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon, took on the theme of ‘United in Leadership’.
As part of proceedings, graduates of the VMG’s accredited qualifications were awarded their diplomas. 15 students, who had completed the VMG/ILM Level 5 Award, Certificate or Diploma in Veterinary Leadership & Management, received their certificates.
Two students from the Certificate in Veterinary Leadership and Management course, Bethan Gray and Brooke Paul, were also invited to make a presentation at the event. Bethan Gray discussed sustainable veterinary retention, while Brooke Paul explored how practices could build recognition in their community.
In her presidential address, Rebecca Robinson explored delegates’ role in leading others in the profession.
Ms Robinson said that everyone in the sector, regardless of whether they have ‘leader’ in their title, had a role in leading others. Reflecting on industry pressures, the VMG’s president said: ‘pressure makes diamonds, and good leaders are diamonds’.
This year’s Congress saw the VMG host the first live session of its participatory forum, ShareSPACE.
The forum ran through Thursday, providing a relaxed and informal setting for conversatons about leadership. The group hosted discussions on 15 topics, which were selected by delegates on the day.
The event saw delegates discuss the ‘urgency’ to improve workplace culture across the veterinary sector.
Victoria Humphries, a polar adventurer and Guinness World record holder, presented a keynote speech to delegates. Comparing veterinary leadership to her adventures to the North Pole, she said: “The Arctic consists of permanently frozen water, so the ground beneath you is continually moving and shifting. You head north, but never in a straight line.”
Ms Robinson said: “What will stay with me is the buzz and excitement around the introduction of ShareSPACE and the enthusiasm for the new topics and speakers on the programme. What was also very clear was the sense of common purpose among everyone at VMG Congress to play a key role in improving veterinary workplaces.”
VMG Congress 2027 will take place from 21-23 April 2027, with Super Early Bird tickets already on sale.
Image © VMG
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