The Animal Medicines Training Regulatory Authority (AMTRA) has announced that, following a period of significant progress, growth and renewed ambition for the organisation, it will shortly begin the search for a new chair as Michael Seals prepares to step down from the role he has held since March 2022.
During his tenure, Mr Seals has played a pivotal role in shaping AMTRA’s strategic direction, championing the value of SQPs and helping to strengthen the organisation’s position as the UK’s leading and biggest SQP regulator and supporter of the profession.
AMTRA said that throughout his time as chair, Mr Seals has consistently advocated for high standards in training, continuing professional development and professional excellence, while encouraging AMTRA to evolve and adapt to meet the changing needs of the sector.
A key part of that legacy has been his support for raising the profile of SQPs beyond the profession itself, including through the inception and delivery of National SQP Week, a new annual campaign designed to grow awareness and understanding of the SQP role.
Launched for the first time in June this year, the campaign was met with strong industry support and has created an important platform for celebrating SQP expertise, collaboration and professional pride.
Mr Seals said: “It has been a privilege to serve as chair of AMTRA and to work alongside a passionate and dedicated Board, Council and executive team. Throughout my time in the role, I have been continually impressed by the professionalism, expertise and commitment of SQPs across the country.
“They play an essential role in supporting animal health and welfare, and I am enormously proud of the progress we have made together to strengthen awareness and recognition of that contribution.
“As AMTRA prepares to recruit its next chair, the organisation does so from a position of strength, with a clear sense of purpose, a strong platform for future growth and a renewed opportunity to build on the momentum generated through initiatives such as National SQP Week.”
“Michael remains in post for a little while yet and will actively be supporting the recruitment of the next chair.”
