Welcome from Professor Stephen May - President of the RCVS

Dear Candidate,

I am delighted that you have expressed an interest in applying to be a lay member on either the RCVS Council or the Veterinary Nurse Council of the RCVS. This is an important opportunity to help support us in our commitment to veterinary care.

In July our governance structure is set to change following new legislation. The changes affect the Council and are aimed at addressing issues surrounding the efficiency and accountability of decision making, and to continue enhancing public confidence in the College.

As a result, we are looking to appoint 6 new lay members to the RCVS Council. In addition, we require 1 replacement lay member for the Veterinary Nurse (VN) Council following a resignation.

The work of these Councils is of incredible importance to the College. The roles of members of the Council include: undertaking the governance of the College in accordance with the powers and obligations set out in the Act and the Charter and attending Council Meetings (normally six a year). Agreeing the Strategic Plan; the five-year financial plan and the budget for the forthcoming year, including fees to be levied. Ensuring that income and expenditure are properly accounted for, investments prudently made and audited accounts presented to the membership in the Annual Report and at the AGM. They elect the President, Vice-Presidents and Treasurer and determine the composition of committees. Critically they must act in accordance with the public service principles set out in the Nolan Committee’s First Report on Standards in Public Life, which include selflessness (acting solely in the public interest), integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

We are looking for people with relevant experience at a senior level, eg: board level or equivalent. You must have understanding and knowledge of corporate governance, strategy and policy development, risk management and financial controls. Candidates will need to provide evidence in their application form of relevant knowledge and experience.

If this is an opportunity that appeals to you and you believe you have the required skills and knowledge plus commitment to the Nolan Committee’s principles, we would very much like to hear from you.  For a confidential conversation with Thewlis Graham Associates who are managing the process, please contact Sarah Thewlis, Managing Director on 0207 850 4781 or email applications@thewlisgraham.com.  Sarah will be happy to discuss this opportunity with you and answer any questions you may have.

Yours sincerely

Professor Stephen May