Joining the Pennard Vets team is much more than just a career choice – it’s a move to become one of our employee owners. Everyone from our vets to our admin team is #ProudlyPennards, and we appreciate what all of team members do. This week we hear from Claire Ross, reflecting on her 23-year career at Pennard Vets, showcasing how adaptability and commitment can lead to unexpected and fulfilling career paths.
Claire, you’ve had an impressive 23-year journey at Pennard Vets. Can you tell us how you started and the roles you’ve progressed through over the years?
“Initially, I joined as a trainee nurse and, over the years, progressed through various roles within the clinic. I started my education in veterinary nursing at Hadlow College, eventually qualifying and working as a general nurse, where I was instrumental in establishing nurse clinics with Ellie.”
Your role has evolved significantly, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. How did the pandemic impact your career progression?
“Before the pandemic, I transitioned into the nursing team leader role at Eton’s, overseeing the nursing staff. Then, as COVID-19 hit, I found myself in a unique position; most of the staff were furloughed, leaving me, Becker (a nurse who had joined us the week lockdown began), and Georgie (the vet) as the key team members on site. This situation thrust me into making more autonomous decisions, which naturally steered me towards the practice principal role.”
Reflecting on your journey, did you ever envision moving away from the clinical setting?
“Reflecting on my journey from nursing to my current position, I never anticipated moving away from the clinical setting. Becoming a qualified nurse felt like a lifelong commitment, fuelled by the satisfaction and ever-changing nature of the role. Nursing, whether through direct care or nurse clinics, provided a fulfilling career path that I hadn’t envisioned diverging from.
Certainly, my time as a nurse, immersed in a dynamic and supportive team that has remained robust over the years, has been incredibly fulfilling. The thought of shifting from this environment never crossed my mind until it seamlessly happened. This progression felt natural, reflecting the evolving nature of veterinary careers.”
Pennard Vets seems to have played a significant role in your career development. How has the organisation supported your growth?
“Pennard Vets, I believe, is uniquely positioned to offer such adaptive career pathways to almost all its staff. Over the years, we’ve seen individuals who possess a distinctive skill set or talent find their niche within our organisation. It’s a testament to how Pennard Vets values and nurtures personal development and innovation, seriously considering any new ideas or suggestions that come from the team.”
Now that you’ve transitioned into your current role, what excites you most about it?
“As for my current role, what excites me is its evolving nature. There’s no predefined path or description for what I do, which means I’m charting my own course. Right now, I find great satisfaction in being a voice for the team, especially in client care, where I’m temporarily leading the team. It’s an excellent opportunity to offer support and, simultaneously, to familiarise myself with not just the client care team at Sevenoaks but with the entire staff.”
As an employee trustee, how do you see your responsibilities extending beyond the typical job description?
“As an employee trustee, it’s about more than just fulfilling job responsibilities; it’s about being a supportive presence, ready to assist wherever needed. This aspect of my role is somewhat unique – it goes beyond typical job descriptions, offering me a different and fulfilling way to contribute to our organisation.”
If you wish to join our amazing team, send us an email for opportunities careers@pennardvets.com or visit our careers website for current vacancies
