Being a successful equine veterinarian involves more than good clinical skills. Vets must also possess numerous nonclinical skills to develop a thriving practice, which is why this year’s 2018 British Equine Veterinary Association’s (BEVA) Congress will feature sessions on succession planning as well as practice finance, human resources and marketing. The 2018 BEVA Congress will take place Sept. 12-15 in Birmingham, U.K.

BEVA Congress committee member Colin Mitchell, BVM&S, Cert EP, MRCVS, of Scott & Mitchell Associates, in Hexham, has organized a strong selection of speakers from veterinary and other fields. The session on succession planning is likely to garner considerable interest from delegates following the response to last year’s corporatization debate. It will feature speakers from the corporate organizations that are increasingly prominent in equine practice and representatives from practices that have been through the process of corporatization. Alternative succession plans will also be discussed and accountants will provide an insight on the specifics as well as the concepts of transitioning practice ownership, practice finance and profitability.

There is also plenty of nonclinical content for assistants and vet nurses, as well. Sessions include soft skills, mindset theory, marketing and social media, human resources, thriving in practice, and adapting to the changing times of veterinary practice.

“Our nonclinical program reflects the results of this year’s members’ survey,” said BEVA Congress committee chair David Rendle, BVSc, MVM, CertEM(IntMed), Dipl. ECEIM, MRCVS, of Rainbow Equine Hospital, in Malton. “59% of survey participants reported that one of their biggest challenges is communicating with clients and managing expectations. Numerous respondents also identified financial and business management and career progression as significant challenges