Rising As a Leader in Animal Health – Leadership Lessons from the Kennel to Global Stage

Leadership doesn’t always come with a roadmap—especially in animal health. In this deeply personal session, I’ll share my own journey of growing from behind-the-scenes roles to leading conversations on some of the biggest stages in veterinary medicine. From cleaning kennels to advising global companies, the path wasn’t linear—but every moment along the way shaped how I lead today.

This session is for anyone who’s ever wondered, “Am I ready for more?”—whether that means managing a team, stepping into ownership, or making a bigger impact in the profession. Through real stories, lessons learned the hard way, and pivotal turning points, I’ll explore how leadership shows up in unexpected places—and how you can grow into it with purpose, authenticity, and confidence.

You’ll walk away with:

• A fresh perspective on what leadership looks like in animal health (and what it doesn’t)
• Lessons learned from navigating change
• Encouragement and practical advice for stepping into new roles or business ownership
• Inspiration to lead from wherever you are—right now

Whether you’re just starting to find your voice or ready to take your next big leap, this session will speak to the heart of what it means to grow as a leader in this profession.

In this thought-provoking session, we delve into the transformative power of cultivating
emotional bonds with your clients. Beyond the surface of logos and slogans, we explore the
nuances of creating authentic connections that evoke trust, loyalty, and lasting impressions.
Discover how to infuse your veterinary practice with values and narratives that resonate deeply
with pet owners, forging a unique identity that distinguishes you in a crowded market. Through
compelling case studies and actionable insights, we showcase how to curate experiences that
touch hearts and minds, transcending transactions to create meaningful relationships.
Join us as we unravel the strategies to elevate your veterinary brand, tapping into the emotional
fabric that links you to the pets you care for and the clients who entrust their companions to
your expertise. This lecture isn’t just about marketing – it’s about nurturing connections that
endure and inspire, ultimately defining your practice as a beacon of compassion and
excellence in the hearts of those you serve.

Discover the winning formula for building a veterinary practice that becomes a magnet for
exceptional talent in our engaging session. In an increasingly competitive landscape, it’s
crucial to position your practice as a workplace of choice. Join us as we delve into the dynamic
realm of recruitment marketing and branding, unveiling powerful strategies that resonate with
prospective team members.
Explore the art of crafting an authentic employer brand that reflects your practice’s
values, culture, and commitment to professional growth. From creating compelling narratives
that highlight your unique offerings to leveraging social media, online platforms, and networking
events, we’ll guide you through proven techniques to showcase your practice as the preferred
destination for veterinary professionals.
Through real-world examples and practical insights, you’ll gain the tools to design recruitment
campaigns that not only attract top talent but also resonate with their aspirations. Whether
you’re a practice owner, HR manager, or industry professional, this session empowers you to
forge a workplace identity that stands out, setting the stage for a dynamic team
that shares your vision and passion.

Eric Garcia isn’t just a marketing and technology expert—he’s someone who truly understands the inner workings of a veterinary practice. His journey started over a decade ago at Veterinary Medical Clinic, where he rolled up his sleeves as an IT Administrator, modernizing the hospital from the ground up. He overhauled the entire network, integrated diagnostic tools, and implemented a new practice management system—seeing firsthand how smart technology and efficient workflows could transform patient care. Before long, he transitioned into business management, helping the clinic grow while keeping a strong focus on client communication and patient experience.