Motivated by her love of animals, Nichola Morris began her career in a nursing role at her local veterinary practice over three decades ago. Since then, her path has steadily evolved, leading her to her current role as Director of Practice. Along the way, she has developed a passion for supporting people and building strong teams, and remains deeply committed to delivering excellent veterinary care and creating a positive environment for both colleagues and clients.
Oh crikey, it’s a long one! I really am that little kid who fell in love with every animal I saw. I was forever begging my parents for pets. Growing up we had a dog called Ben and three cats, Marmalade, Poppy and Sooty, and that’s really where my love of animals began.
When I was 13, I joined the Air Cadets and started my Duke of Edinburgh Award. I needed a volunteer placement, and the veterinary practice next door to where I lived was my first choice. Thankfully, they said yes! That quickly became a Saturday job, then a few evening shifts after school, and when I finished school, I was offered a nursing role. I took kittens home, baby ducklings, stray dogs - you name it!
A few years later I had my children, and during my pregnancies I moved into more administrative work within the practice: debt management, health and safety, rotas and similar tasks. At my return-to-work interview after my third child, I was asked if I’d consider coming back as Practice Manager. I remember thinking there was no way I was good enough and talked myself out of it several times… but eventually I took the leap.
It turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I realised I didn’t just love animals, I loved working with people. Supporting teams, encouraging them and helping them grow became something I’m really passionate about. I fully embraced becoming the “work mum”! I stayed in that role for 14 years before moving into the operations team for a couple of years, but I quickly realised how much I missed being in practice. When the opportunity came up to become Director of Practice only 20 minutes from home, it felt meant to be.
I’ve now been in the role for over a year and have built such a strong bond with the team. Looking back, the biggest lesson from my journey is not to talk yourself out of opportunities. Sometimes other people see something in you before you see it yourself. You never know where that first Saturday job might lead—mine started next door to my house and eventually led me to becoming a Director of Practice.
For me, it’s all about the people and the animals, it’s the perfect combination. Helping animals and seeing them recover is incredibly rewarding, but what makes this profession truly special is the people you work alongside every day.
Veterinary practice can be challenging and emotional, but it’s also full of some of the most passionate, caring and dedicated individuals you could hope to meet. I love supporting and encouraging my team, helping them grow in confidence and develop in their careers.
I also really value the relationships we build with clients. Being trusted to care for someone’s much‑loved pet is something I never take for granted.
It’s more than just a job to me, it’s a vocation, a way of life, and although it asks a lot of you, it gives so much back in purpose, teamwork and the chance to make a real difference.
My proudest achievement is the teams I’ve helped build and support along the way. Creating an environment where people feel valued, supported, and able to grow is hugely important to me.
Seeing individuals gain confidence, progress in their careers and realise their potential is incredibly rewarding. Knowing I’ve played even a small part in helping someone believe in themselves is something I’m genuinely proud of.
Becoming Director of Practice is a milestone I treasure. When I think back to the Saturday girl who started out at the practice next door, I couldn’t have imagined the journey ahead. It’s a reminder that with hard work, supportive people and a willingness to say yes, you can go much further than you ever expected. 13 year old me would be very proud of where I am today (Is that cringy!)
Kindness, trust and good communication are the foundation of a positive workplace. Veterinary practice can be demanding, so it’s essential that people feel respected, supported and valued.
For me, it starts with treating people the way you’d want to be treated. Leading with kindness, fairness and empathy sets the tone for the entire team. Everyone should feel able to speak up, share ideas and ask for help.
I also believe leaders should never feel distant. No one is above rolling up their sleeves, anyone can grab a mop if needed! Showing that you’re willing to get stuck in builds trust and reinforces that you’re all in it together.
When people feel listened to and genuinely cared for, it creates an environment where everyone can thrive.
Stay curious, work hard and be open to every opportunity. The profession is incredibly rewarding but can be emotional at times. Surround yourself with supportive people, ask questions and never stop learning. No one expects you to know everything.
Be kind - to others and to yourself. Everyone in this profession is working toward the same goal, and kindness builds strong teams and a positive culture.
And don’t talk yourself out of opportunities. Sometimes others see your potential before you do, so be brave enough to say yes.
For those who may want to move into leadership roles, what skills should they focus on developing?
Communicate clearly, openly and consistently. It’s as much about listening as it is about speaking.
Let go of doing everything yourself. Encourage your team to bring solutions, it builds confidence and capability.
Share your skills generously. Leadership is about helping others grow, not holding knowledge back.
I’m not very good at sitting still! I love spending time with my family, now my children are 22, 21 and 17, it often feels like spending time with friends. Our four dogs and three cats keep us busy, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
My husband and I love live music and festivals, and we adore trips to Padstow in Cornwall or walking in the Lake District near home. I’m also part of a committee that recently reopened our community pub, which has been incredibly rewarding, seeing everyone back together, young, old, and of course dogs are welcome!