A guest blog by Justin Powlesland, director of JHP Recruitment
In the last nine years, I’ve seen a lot of change in the world of veterinary recruitment. The boom in pet ownership through the Covid-19 pandemic meant that vet practices were busier than ever, and the longstanding workforce shortage meant that veterinary professionals were, and still are, in high demand. However, the veterinary industry is not immune to economic fluctuations, which along with technological advancements and shifting consumer expectations, have created rapidly changing conditions in the veterinary job market, including redundancies due to the restructuring or downsizing of some practices. While redundancies can cause uncertainty for professionals in the sector, they also present new opportunities for those looking to enter or evolve within the industry.
In any industry, the concepts of redundancies and growth cycles are deeply intertwined, representing two sides of the economic and organisational coin. Redundancies often conjure negative connotations, as they are typically associated with job losses, downsizing and restructuring. However, they are also an essential part of the broader growth cycle—a process that allows organisations and economies to renew, innovate and position themselves for future expansion.
This article explores the factors behind the changes in the veterinary job market and, more importantly, highlights the potential opportunities that this evolving landscape offers job seekers.
Challenges impacting veterinary jobs
Recruitment within the veterinary industry is affected by numerous challenges, with a combination of operational, strategic and individual-level impacts. Labour shortages are a significant issue, exacerbated by rising demand for pet care and a limited supply of qualified vets and support staff. This strain is intensified by client expectations, often leading to backlash when services are delayed or costly and further increasing stress levels among veterinary staff. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation into the sector has raised concerns about business practices, potentially leading to tighter regulations and operational changes for practices. Staffing requirements are also shifting, with some practices resorting to redundancies or restructuring to cope with financial pressures.
Some of the common challenges facing the vet job market are:
1. Technological advancements
The adoption of telemedicine and automation tools has reshaped the veterinary landscape. Veterinary practices can now automate administrative tasks, client communication and even parts of diagnostic processes. While these technologies streamline operations and reduce costs, they also reduce the need for certain roles, particularly in support staff and administrative positions.
2. Consolidation of veterinary practices
In many regions, independent veterinary clinics are being acquired by corporate groups or larger veterinary chains. This consolidation often leads to restructuring as the larger entities seek to optimise efficiency. Redundant roles, such as multiple practice managers or duplicated administrative roles, may be eliminated.
3. Economic pressures
Rising operational costs, including rent, business rates, equipment and supplies, combined with stagnant pricing models, can lead to financial pressure on veterinary practices. To remain viable, some clinics resort to cutting staff or downsizing operations.
4. Shift in consumer behaviour
Pet owners are increasingly seeking affordable and convenient services, such as online consultations or mobile vet clinics, which has diversified demand for traditional brick-and-mortar practices. This change can impact the staffing needs of conventional clinics.
5. Workforce shortage
Rising demand for pet care and a fall in the numbers of overseas registrants coming to work in the UK along with high numbers leaving the profession, mean there is a continuing recruitment crisis in the veterinary industry. This can exacerbate the challenges for practices in managing conditions for their staff, but for job seekers, also means demand for veterinary professionals is high and opportunities abound.
Leadership, cultural and operational changes within a workplace, even when they will result in longer term improvements, can feel unsettling and take us out of our comfort zone. Occasionally these sorts of changes can mean our job no longer aligns well with our values. Whether our job is at risk or not, sometimes changes in a workplace, in our personal circumstances or just in our own growth and development can leave us in a position where we need to seek a new role.
Opportunities for job seekers
Despite the challenges that change poses, there are numerous ways that the shifting dynamics of the veterinary industry are creating opportunities for job seekers:
1. Growth in telemedicine and remote veterinary care
As telemedicine continues to grow in popularity, there is a rising demand for vets and vet nurses who can provide consultations online. This offers a flexible work environment, often allowing professionals to work from home, which may appeal to those seeking a better work-life balance or those in rural areas looking for remote job options.
Additionally, the expansion of telemedicine platforms opens up roles in tech support, customer service, and product development tailored specifically to veterinary telehealth.
2. Specialised veterinary roles
With traditional roles shrinking in some areas, there is an increasing demand for vets and support staff specialising in emerging fields. Specialties like exotic animal care, oncology, dentistry and behavioural health are experiencing growth as more pet owners seek specialised care for their animals. Those willing to invest in further education or certifications can stand out in these niche markets, where demand continues to rise.
3. Corporate veterinary groups and management roles
The corporate consolidation of veterinary practices is creating a surge in demand for management and executive roles. Large veterinary chains often require business-minded professionals to oversee multiple locations, manage operational efficiency, and ensure quality of care across practices. For those with experience in leadership, practice management or business, there are growing opportunities in these corporate structures.
4. Veterinary tech startups
Startups focused on veterinary technologies, such as AI-driven diagnostics, pet health apps or wearable devices for pets, are on the rise. These companies need veterinary expertise to develop, market, and implement their solutions. Veterinary professionals who are open to transitioning into the tech space can find unique roles in product development, user testing or education for fellow professionals on how to use the technologies.
We are also seeing veterinary professionals with a ‘side-hustle’ putting more time and effort into these in order to make a living rather than an extra few quid here or there.
5. Pet wellness and preventive care
Preventive care and pet wellness have become major focal points in the industry, especially with pet insurance plans gaining traction. There is an increasing need for veterinary professionals who can educate pet owners on wellness programs, nutrition, and preventive care. Opportunities exist in wellness-focused clinics, insurance companies, and pet food manufacturers for those looking to move beyond traditional clinical roles.
6. Veterinary consultancy and locum opportunities
As more clinics downsize or eliminate full-time roles, veterinary professionals may turn to consultancy or locum work. Many small clinics still need part-time vets or specialists for certain cases but cannot afford full-time staff. Freelancing allows vets and vet nurses to offer their services to multiple practices on a contract basis, providing more control over their schedules and workload.
7. Education and training
With the rise of new technologies and treatment methodologies, there is growing demand for veterinary professionals who can teach others. Opportunities exist in both formal academic settings and through continuous professional development courses or workshops aimed at existing veterinary professionals. Individuals with a passion for education can find fulfilling roles sharing their knowledge with the next generation of veterinarians or keeping peers updated on industry advancements.
How to navigate job changes and find new opportunities
It’s never a bad time to review your career path and aspirations and think about what opportunities could present in the future. Whether or not you’re currently looking for a new role, there are some considerations that could strengthen, or add flexibility to your future career development.
1. Upskilling and specialisation
Changes to a business, redundancies or changes to terms and conditions of employment often encourage professionals to rethink their career path. Investing in specialised training or certifications can make a job seeker more competitive in the market. Whether it’s becoming proficient in telemedicine platforms or specialising in a high-demand area of veterinary care, upskilling can significantly improve job prospects.
2. Networking and industry involvement
Prioritising networking within the veterinary community can pay dividends. Attending industry conferences, joining online veterinary groups, and connecting with professionals or specialist recruiters on platforms like LinkedIn can lead to new ideas, job opportunities and provide valuable insights into the evolving market. Never underestimate the power of a good recruiter!
3. Adapting to new business models
The rise of corporate groups and tech-driven veterinary services requires adaptability. Job seekers can consider roles outside of traditional clinical settings and be open to positions that combine veterinary knowledge with business, technology, or customer service.
4. Exploring non-clinical careers
Many veterinary professionals possess valuable skills that are transferable to non-clinical careers, such as regulatory roles, sales positions within pharmaceutical companies or consulting for animal health products. Exploring these alternative career paths can open doors to entirely new industries while still leveraging one’s veterinary expertise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the veterinary industry faces significant challenges, particularly in terms of redundancies, changing consumer expectations, and the adoption of new technologies, these very shifts are creating exciting opportunities for veterinary professionals. Whether it’s through upskilling, entering specialised fields, or exploring roles in telemedicine, veterinary tech startups or corporate management, there are numerous pathways for professionals to navigate this evolving landscape.
By staying adaptable, investing in continued professional development and leveraging industry networks, veterinary professionals can not only weather these changes but thrive in emerging roles that reflect the future of the industry. As the sector continues to innovate and grow, those who embrace these opportunities are well-positioned for long-term success.
If you need help with any of the issues covered in this article, please feel to reach out to me at Justin@jhprecruitment.com and I will do everything that I can to assist.
Justin Powlesland is the Director and Founder of JHP Recruitment, a leading recruitment agency based in the UK. With over 15 years of experience in the recruitment industry, Justin specialises in providing staffing solutions across various sectors, including veterinary. His expertise and passion for connecting talented professionals with the right opportunities have made JHP Recruitment a well-respected name in the industry. Under his leadership, the company has won several awards, reflecting its commitment to quality service and client satisfaction. Justin is known for his strong leadership, industry knowledge, and dedication to both clients and candidates.
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