6 Jul 2023
Miles Russell became president of the Veterinary Management Group (VMG) at its congress in Stratford-upon-Avon in June. It marks the start of a busy year, but Miles took time out from his busy schedule to step into the Examination Room to discuss his career and hopes for the next 12 months…
Miles Russell
Job Title
Miles Russell became president of the Veterinary Management Group (VMG) at its congress in Stratford-upon-Avon earlier this month (8 to 9 June). It marks the start of a busy year, but Miles took time out from his busy schedule to step into the Examination Room to discuss his career and hopes for the next 12 months…
POSITION: President of the Veterinary Management Group.
LITTLE-KNOWN FACT: I represented the UK in three-day eventing at the European Championships at Burghley in 1989.
Q
Could you summarise your path to the veterinary world? Did you arrive by accident or design
A
I started accountancy training with one of the big firms, but my dyslexia made exams difficult, so I changed tack and joined a firm of chartered surveyors in the Cotswolds as their accountant.
I had done three years of farm accountancy while doing my training and, as they were land agents, this made me a good fit. I started taking on more of the running of the firm and later became partner in charge of the business with the aim of creating a strong platform from which the fee earners could go out and do their job.
A few years later, an opportunity cropped up at The George Veterinary Group in Malmesbury, Wiltshire. Already a substantial business with 25 vets and 65 employees – this was in 2008 – the role was to manage its finance and make day-to-day business decisions. I had arrived in the veterinary sector…
Q
What have you learned about your strengths and career aspirations along the way?
A
I’m a problem solver – and I stay calm under duress.
I’m also inquisitive, detail-minded and have a strong interest in how technology can help businesses to grow.
Perhaps I have chip on my shoulder because I don’t have a formal qualification, but I’ve learned that if you’re willing to step forward and take responsibility, you can still achieve – and that’s what I’ve done.
Q
Your day job is financial director of The George Veterinary Group – what does it involve and what are your priorities for 2023?
A
I’ve grown the role considerably and now manage an operations team of five. The practice’s finances and its people are my main focus areas. We’re a people business, so it’s all about the team.
We need to ensure we are creating a positive environment in which every team member can thrive. Recent initiatives include the George Forum – to give all team members a chance to be heard – and the creation of the new role of support and development officer.
Q
How has you membership of the VMG benefited you and your practice?
A
I wanted to continue to learn, and to contribute my experience to my peers and colleagues. I have thoroughly enjoyed my involvement and was delighted to become, first, its financial director and, this year, president.
During my time with the VMG I’ve met some fantastic people – many of whom have become good friends. I’ve also learned a huge amount – particularly about diversity and inclusion.
The VMG has opened my eyes to new thinking and new approaches, and I have a wider appreciation of what’s happening across the profession through my involvement with the BVA council, which I participate in as a representative of the VMG.
Q
What should we be looking out for from the VMG this year?
A
We are continuing to develop our suite of VMG/Institute of Leadership and Management Level 5 Veterinary Leadership and Management qualifications. They’re modular qualifications with an emphasis on flexibility, accessibility and real-world relevance, and enable learners to build a qualification to suit their role, ambitions and areas of interest.
Finally, we will continue to explore how we can support our members more effectively and grow our overall membership.
Q
What are you most looking forward to during your presidency and what might prove challenging?
A
I’m looking forward to (and already enjoying) representing the VMG at industry events and attending lots of congresses. The pressure’s on to do a good job on behalf of my colleagues on the board and, of course, our members.
Q
What do you do outside work to relax?
A
I enjoy being active. I find walking the dog and morning gym sessions a great stress reliever, and regularly play golf as a replacement for competitive horse riding. I also love skiing with family and friends.
Q
If you could give your younger self a piece of advice, what would it be?
A
Be prepared to step outside your comfort zone – you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.
