Do you have what it takes to be BVA’s next Junior Vice President?

Nominations have opened for the 2022/23 Junior Vice President role at the British Veterinary Association (BVA), with BVA veterinary surgeon members being invited to nominate themselves for the role.

The officer position is open to BVA members who believe they have what it takes to represent the views and interests of members and the wider UK veterinary profession to governments, politicians, and the media.

The JVP is an ambassador for BVA and the wider profession, using their expertise to provide veterinary and political advice and working closely with the association’s Chief Executive and policy, media, and membership teams. They will be required to forge and maintain excellent relationships with BVA stakeholders and lead on a portfolio of priority issues.

The role, as with the other officer positions (President and Senior Vice President), is for a one-year term, starting from BVA’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in September. It would see the successful applicant become President in September 2023. The total commitment is three years as a BVA officer, as well as a further three years serving as a past president on BVA Council (four meetings per year).

Current BVA President Justine Shotton, who stood as BVA Junior Vice President in 2020/21, said: “I would encourage anyone with a passion for animal health, animal welfare, and our wonderful veterinary profession, to consider putting themselves forward to join our Officer team. There’s no denying it’s hard work, but the rewards are enormous, and we’re expertly supported by an incredible team at BVA HQ.

“The team spirit is tangible, and the team brief us on key messages and ensure that everything runs smoothly, enabling us to represent the views of our members clearly and concisely, not only to policy makers and politicians but also both local and national media.

“If you think you have what it takes to represent the views and interests of BVA members and the wider UK veterinary profession to governments, politicians, and the media; forge and maintain excellent relationships with our stakeholders; and lead on a portfolio of priority issues, then why not put yourself forward?”

Nominations are confidential and are assessed by the Electoral College, which will make a recommendation to BVA Council. The time commitment for the Junior and Senior Vice Presidents’ roles is approximately two days per week for BVA and the President’s role is full time.

Nominations close on Monday 17 January 2022.

The role description, person specification, and nomination form are available at: https://www.bva.co.uk/about-us/our-structure/bva-officers/