The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has opened nominations for its 2021/22 Junior Vice President role, with BVA veterinary surgeon members invited to self-nominate or nominate a fellow member.

The officer position is open to all BVA members who believe that they or their nominee has what it takes to represent the views and interests of members and the wider UK veterinary profession to governments, politicians, and the media. They welcome applications from veterinary surgeons from a range of professional backgrounds and experience, but in order to maintain a balance of expertise on the Officer team they’re particularly keen to hear from candidates with a background in small animal practice this year.

The JVP is an ambassador for BVA and the wider profession, using his or her expertise to provide veterinary and political advice and working closely with our 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, from their Annual General Meeting (AGM) in September. It would see the successful applicant become President in September 2022. 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 Junior Vice President Justine Shotton said:

“I have really enjoyed my role as BVA Junior Vice President so far. Only a couple of months in, I’ve already attended political lobbying and briefing events on improving animal welfare at slaughter; been involved in meetings with the Vet Schools Council planning on how we best support students in their education through Covid-19; chaired the BVA hot topic session at the Vet Show Autumn Series on sustainability in our profession; and even discussed octopus sentience.

“I am loving the diversity of this role and feel privileged to be involved with causes that I value deeply and that are crucial to our profession. I would encourage anyone with a passion for making our wonderful profession the best it can be, and for championing animal welfare, to apply!”

Nominations for the next JVP are confidential and will be reviewed by the BVA Electoral College, which assesses nominations and formally selects members for election to BVA officer status.

How to apply

BVA members who are interested in applying or nominating a fellow member with their consent to become part of the officer team can find the role description and nomination form on the BVA Officers’ page. The closing date for nominations is 9am on Monday 11 January 2021.

BVA Officer role description and person specification

JVP nomination form