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What can practices learn from John Lewis?
Image Tracy Killen
John Lewis HR and main board director Tracy Killen
Director Tracy Killen set to open VMPA/SPVS Congress

Delegates at this year's VMPA/SPVS Congress will learn how to "thrive, not just survive" in tough economic times, taking advice from John Lewis director Tracy Killen, who is set to open the event.

Retail giant, The John Lewis Group, enjoyed a record-breaking Christmas period, with sales reportedly topping £35 million on December 27 alone.

But how have they managed to overcome tightening purse-strings and pressures on customer loyalty? Practice managers can find out on January 31 at the VPMA/SPVS Congress in Newport.

Main board director Tracy Killen will offer her take on what veterinary practices can learn from John Lewis. Being wife to the owner of Highcroft Vet Group, Richard Killen, Tracy is no stranger to the veterinary industry.

During the Congress, Tracy will also join accountant Mark Beaney on remuneration and bonuses, as well as taking part in the Leading your Team lecture stream alongside Katherine Eitel, US training and development expert.

For the full programme or to book online, visit the website.

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BSAVA partners with BVA Live 2026

News Story 1
 BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.

The organisation will be supporting BVA Live's Clinical Abstracts programme, showcasing selected abstracts of veterinary research throughout the event.

The clinical abstracts can be on any small animal veterinary subject, and must be based on research undertaken in industry, practice or academia. Abstracts can be presented in poster or oral formats.

Submissions will open on 15th December 2025, and close on 6th March 2026. You can register interest here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.