Featured people

Edd Knowles

MA VetMB MVetMed PhD DipECEIM MRCVS
Specialist in Equine Internal Medicine, Bell Equine

I joined Bell Equine in 2007 to work in an environment in which clinical research and the development of equine practice are an essential part of the approach. Combining research with practice has been central to my career from my first position as an intern, through ambulatory work and a residency in Equine Medicine to a part-time PhD.

CVS has enabled me to develop new clinical, professional and leadership interests. For example, by working with veterinary laboratories and other practices within the CVS group. This work has been challenging but rewarding and enjoyable.

Since acquisition by CVS the practice has retained its ethos. As clinical freedom and many of the decisions affecting the practice are taken locally, allowing us to tailor our approach to serve our clients and pursue our clinical interestes that make the job rewarding.

Investment in new equipment and learning support has allowed us to continue to develop our services and provide the best care that we can for our patients.

Fran Taylor

BVetMed MRCVS
Clinical Director, Bell Equine Veterinary Clinic

I’ve been a Clinical Director with CVS for just over 10 years. During that time I’ve moved from leading a team of 12 to a team of 65 people.

CVS have been hugely supportive in my development as a leader through high-quality training, including a Diploma in Leadership and Management. There is an excellent appraisal system in place and it was through this that I was made aware of the opportunity to apply for the clinical director role at Bell Equine. To continue the role that I loved, managing an equine practice on a much larger scale was a very natural step for me.

During my time at CVS I’ve had two children and after each, with the needs of the business in mind, have reduced my working hours. CVS has been hugely supportive with a robust flexible working policy.

CVS is not a company who tell you how to do your job; they offer you the support and training to do it to the best of your ability. This is a really exciting time to be joining CVS equine.

Jo Burnett

BVetMed(Hons) MRCVS
Clinical Director, Valley Equine Hospital

I joined Valley Equine’s internship programme in 2015. Having completed the internship, I decided to stay on to work as an ambulatory vet. I enjoy a varied caseload, a great mix of clients, and teaching students and interns. I returned from maternity leave in 2020 to take up the role of Clinical Director at Valley Equine.

CVS has supported a lot of CPD, including my CertAVP which I completed in 2020. In addition, they have been very supportive of flexible working, allowing me to raise my family while still pursuing my career.

Joining CVS has given me the opportunity to progress my career both clinically and in management.

Laura Hargreaves

BVMedsci (Hons) BVM BVS CertAVP MRCVS
Veterinary Surgeon, B&W Equine

I joined B&W Equine in 2019 as a first opinion ambulatory vet. Since joining, I have enjoyed the opportunity to build and manage my own caseload alongside continued development of my clinical skillset, including completion of a Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice.

Alongside my clinical work, I have always had a passion for the education and development of new graduate veterinary surgeons and veterinary students. CVS have been hugely supportive of this and have enabled me to progress into the role of New Graduate Mentor for the CVS Equine Division. Through this role, I am able to support recent graduates during their initial steps into equine practice and develop ongoing personal and professional learning opportunities for them, both within their practice and the wider CVS Equine team.

Joining CVS has given me the opportunity to progress my career in a supportive environment where continued learning and career development is actively encouraged.