WSAVA appoints new executive director

The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) has named Richard Casey, MBA, as its new executive director. Casey started in the veterinary world in the UK back in 2011.1 Before that, he was previously in human resources and leadership development for a variety of companies. Since then, he has worked for multiple UK-based veterinary charities, including People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) and Blue Cross. While at Blue Cross, Casey held a senior leadership role and was able to improve clinical, team, and commercial performance.¹

More recently, Casey held the position of Senior Vice President of the Veterinary Management Group from 2020-2022. The Veterinary Management Group represents “those in leadership and management roles in the veterinary profession in the UK.”¹

Along with his experience in the veterinary world, Casey also received his executive MBA and a postgraduate certificate in strategic management and leadership. He is currently researching his doctorate in business administration.

Commenting on his appointment and what he hopes to improve at the WSAVA, Casey stated, “The veterinary sector truly is a global community—but it’s a community whose members face different challenges, depending on the region of the world in which they work. Many colleagues, for instance, struggle to gain access to continuing professional development–and even access to the essential drugs they need to treat their patients. This must change and the WSAVA is working hard to bring about this change.”¹

The WSAVA represents more than 200,000 veterinarians through its 115 member associations and states that it, “works to support the companion animal veterinary profession globally and to enhance standards of clinical care for companion animals.”¹ The WSAVA focuses on developing areas of veterinary practice, involving pain management, nutrition, and vaccination. The WSAVA also has new clinical committees in oncology and reproduction control areas.

The association has its headquarters based in Ontario, Canada.

References

New executive director for World Small Animal Veterinary Association. News Release. The World Small Animal Veterinary Association. April 19, 2022.