RCVS Council
The main governing body of the RCVS, responsible for setting the College’s strategic direction and upholding professional standards across the veterinary profession.
Paddy Gordon
MA VetMB MRCVS
Biography
After qualifying (Cambridge 1991) I spent two years in mixed practice, then committed to farm animal with an RVC Residency. I gained much from senior colleagues, passing my RCVS Certificate in Cattle Health and Production. In 2000 I settled in Somerset buying into a mixed independent, and founding XLVets practice, Shepton Vets. For 24 years I have balanced farm clinical work with practice management during a period of significant change and growth (from 7 vets to now over 60 staff). Clinical role comprises mainly dairy herd health and fertility through routine visits and advisory work. Practice management included services, team roles and financial planning. I now work part-time in a clinical role after transferring ownership to my colleagues.
I have been fortunate to have had support in my professional development from novice (no farming background) to senior vet and business owner. In addition to clinical work I have had roles working with pharmaceutical companies on product development and registration trials, worked as dairy standards advisor to Tesco for 10 years (policy and performance) and am currently a Director of Farmcare West (delivery of government services). I have worked with several vet schools delivering clinical teaching from practice. I have supported others in the profession, serving on BCVA Committee (widening delivery of education) and delivering CPD with BCVA and the RVC.
Married, now with 3 adult children and a Labrador, built own house and smallholding. Interests include Bath Rugby and Glastonbury Festival.
Council Member category
- Elected member: 2025-2029
Committee membership
- Education Committee
- Postnominals Subcommittee
- Primary Qualifications Subcommittee
Declaration of interests
| Directorships | Farmcare West - Deputy Principal Official Veterinarian (DPOV) |
|---|---|
| Relevant financial interests, eg shareholdings, bonds and derivatives | None |
| Consultancies | Tesco - Independent vet advising on dairy standards 2013 - 2023 |
| Appointments to other bodies | None |
| Membership of other veterinary or allied organisations |
|
| Employment |
|
| Qualifications (other than veterinary qualifications listed in the Register) | Advanced Practitioner 2015-25, now lapsed |
| Interests relating to immediate family or close friends | None |
| Other relevant information | None |