Two Lay Members

The RCVS was established in 1844 by Royal Charter to be the governing body of the veterinary profession with the purpose of safeguarding the interests of the public and animals by ensuring that only those registered with the RCVS practise veterinary surgery. The RCVS is committed to veterinary care; through regulation of the educational, ethical and clinical standards of veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses, thereby protecting the interests of those dependent on animals, and assuring public health.

The RCVS is looking to appoint two new lay members to the RCVS Council. The work of the Council is of incredible importance to the College. Some of the main roles of the members of the RCVS Council are as follows:

• To undertake the governance of the College, in accordance with the Act and the Charter;
• To attend Council Meetings (normally six a year);
• To agree the Strategic Plan; the five-year financial plan and the budget for the forthcoming year;
• To ensure that income and expenditure are properly accounted for, investments prudently made and audited accounts presented in the Annual Report and at the AGM;
• To elect the President, Vice-Presidents and Treasurer and determine the composition of committees;

Full terms of reference can be found at

All lay members must:

• have relevant experience at a senior (executive or non-executive) level e.g. board level or equivalent
• have understanding and knowledge of corporate governance, strategy and policy development, business management, risk management and financial controls.
• have a general understanding of and interest in professional regulation, the veterinary professions, consumer protection and, animal health and welfare Candidates will need to provide evidence in their application form of relevant knowledge and experience.

Remuneration: Loss of earnings is set at a maximum of £366.00 per day (if applicable) and expenses will be covered for these roles.

Closing date: 17 March 2026 at 4pm.

Interviews: Thewlis Graham Associates will interview candidates on 31 March, 1 , 9 and 10 April 2026. The RCVS Independent Selection Panel will interview shortlisted candidates on w/c 11 May 2026.

To apply, please visit our website via the button below.

For a confidential discussion please contact Thewlis Graham Associates on (0).