Here are some tips for creating a new role or position within the veterinary industry:

• Identify your themes and functions – What are the big picture areas you are passionate about (e.g. education, policy, sustainability) and what specific skills/roles do you want to focus on (e.g. community building, strategic planning, communication)?

• Leverage your network – Reach out to your professional contacts and let them know you are looking to create a new role. They may be able to provide advice, connections, or even opportunities you weren’t aware of.

• Demonstrate initiative and problem-solving – Rather than just waiting for a role to open up, proactively identify needs or gaps in your organization or industry that you could fill. Pitch ideas and solutions.

• Be persistent and patient – Creating a new role takes time. Continue building relationships, doing informational interviews, and refining your ideas. The right opportunity may take time to materialize.

• Highlight transferable skills – Emphasize how your existing skills and experiences, even if not directly veterinary-related, can be applied to the new role you want to create.

• Start small and scale up – Consider starting with a part-time or freelance role first, then growing it into a full-time position as you demonstrate your value.

The key is to be proactive, leverage your network, and focus on how you can uniquely contribute rather than just waiting for the “perfect” job posting. With creativity and persistence, you can carve out a new path for yourself.