The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is the UK regulator of veterinary medicines and policy adviser on this to ministers. We facilitate wide availability of safe and effective medicines to prevent and treat diseases and improve welfare in animals. In doing so we ensure that this is not at the expense of human health or the environment.
Veterinary medicines are important to ensure a viable livestock and fish-farming industry and healthy lives for companion and working animals. We deal with all applications for a Marketing Authorisation for veterinary medicines to specified timelines, and when necessary urgency of need. Where necessary, we take formal action against the illegal supply of veterinary medicines in order to protect human and animal health.
The VMD leads activity across government on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in animal health. We manage the programme for the surveillance of residues of veterinary medicines and banned substances in home-produced livestock and animal products, reporting of results and co-ordinating follow-up action. We also monitor adverse reactions to veterinary medicines.
And we work Internationally in sub-Saharan Africa and elsewhere to promote the responsible and effective use of medicines worldwide.
Why the Veterinary Medicines Directorate is supporting Boardroom Apprentice
We want to see the very best people – which means a diverse group of people – to be on Boards. Not everyone has the same opportunities to access the skills to be able to do this and we would like to give this opportunity to someone who wouldn’t otherwise have it.
We are a small board with only 4 non-execs and we work in a supportive and understanding way.
Location of Board and Committee Meetings
July meeting at the VMD in Addlestone, Surrey. Others are held online.
Frequency and timing of board/committee meetings
Four times a year. Audit Committee at 10.30 followed by Management Board normally till approximately 16.00
Date of Board Meetings (January 2024 – December 2024)
(We have one on 19/12/23) then normally in March, July and September
Committee of the Boards and meeting dates (January 2024 – December 2024)
Only Audit Committee and Board as above
