Third Graduate Launch event welcomes newest cohort of early careers vets
October 23, 2025
Held at the Hilton Metropole in Birmingham, the two-day event gave our new Graduate Academy cohort the opportunity to come together to mark the start of their veterinary careers. The schedule was packed with lectures and interactive sessions, as well as networking time with peers, senior leaders and the opportunity to engage with support teams.
Graduate Academy keynote speaker
The event also featured returning guest speaker Nicolas Hamilton, who shared his journey with cerebral palsy and his success as one of the top racing drivers in the British Touring Car Championship.
Nathan Booth, Graduate Academy Director, shared his excitement for our new graduate cohort and the opportunities that lie ahead for them:
“It’s always inspiring to see so many new graduates come together at the start of their careers. The launch event is a fantastic opportunity for them to build connections, form friendships and begin developing the skills and confidence that will shape their first years in practice.
“It’s a privilege to be part of helping them take those first steps, and I’m excited to see how this next group grows and flourishes as part of the IVC Evidensia community.”
IVC Evidensia Graduate Launch event 2025
Networking, support, and practical insights
Day one kicked off with a warm introduction from Daniella Dos Santos, Director of Professional Culture, who was joined by Duncan Phillips, UK and Ireland CEO via video message.
Following introductions, guest speaker Nicolas Hamilton explored themes of difference and expectation, as he shared the challenges of his disability growing up and how failure was integral to finding success in his career.
Later in the day, graduates had the opportunity to meet their regional coaches and connect with peers during an interactive ‘Escape Room’ task.
The final sessions of the day offered graduates problem-solving scenarios and advice from our senior vets, including Andrew Kent, Regional Veterinary Director, Rhiannah De Carteret, Equine Veterinary Surgeon, Maliha Chowdhury, Clinical Director and Paul Horwood, Country Head of Farm in an entertaining session titled ‘what I would tell my younger self’.
Enhancing communication and managing client-vet relationships
Nikki Cresswell, UK Leadership Development Manager and Nathan Booth opened Day Two by inviting graduates to share their worries about starting in clinical practice via online poll. Sessions on mastering effective communication and pricing followed, with time for graduates to explore the exhibition room and chat with our internal support teams and partner representatives, including Vets Now, the BVA and Vetlife.
Feedback from graduates
Following the two days, graduates shared their highlights of the event:
“My favourite part of the programme was the keynote speaker Nicolas Hamilton – his story is inspiring!”
“It’s just been great to meet other grads in the same area!”
Others reflected on how it was useful to hear from senior vets about their early experiences in practice.
“Introduction talks made me feel a lot more comfortable going into the workforce.”
“Within the past few days, I’ve learnt a lot, and I’m definitely going back to practice with more knowledge. I’m looking forward to more Graduate Academy events, so I’m excited to be part of it!”
If you're interested in learning more about our Graduate Academy, explore the programme here.