VMX is always loud, fast-paced, and full of conversation – and 2026 delivered on all fronts.
Between packed aisles, Orlando’s trademark theatrics, and a few moments that were more eventful than planned (including swag that is, at the time of writing, still negotiating its release from US customs), it was a week that kept everyone on their toes.
But once the noise settles, what really matters is what you take back with you.
VMX 2026 gave the GVC team the opportunity to step out from behind screens, spend meaningful time with clients and candidates face to face, and take stock of what we’re building across the veterinary industry.
Rather than distilling the experience into a single narrative, we asked the team to share their own takeaways.
Here’s what they said.
Michael Stradling
Having a bigger team in attendance this year allowed us to collectively showcase the brand and widen the service offering to clients and candidates alike.
Everyone played their part – both onsite and back at the office – rolling with curveballs and overcoming obstacles.
The feedback from clients on how GVC conducts itself as an organisation is something to be very proud of. Comments like ‘these are the good guys’ and ‘great peeps’ came up repeatedly.
From being unknown in the US to this point is a big accomplishment, but the team’s hunger to break records and keep pushing forward is what excites me most.
Adam Turner
My view on the VMX trip is a different angle.
The expo was a success: lots of leads, new connections, strengthening existing relationships and so on.
But it’s when you take a step back from all the noise and appreciate what we’re doing on a global scale. Rubbing shoulders with powerhouses in the veterinary & animal health industry, trying to carve our own path and make a positive impact where we can.
We also came together as a team. 5 different personalities at the expo, but grounded by all being good people who do the right thing. At moments, it didn’t feel like a work trip at all – which is testament to the great people at GVC.
Steve Clarke
I think it was clear to see that the Global Veterinary Careers brand is fully alive, kicking and growing!
The familiarity with clients, candidates and people in the industry is really pleasing to see. It was an absolute pleasure and didn’t feel like work at all (I’m already looking forward to VMX27!) As our team gets bigger and our brand grows, one thing remains the same: we’re truly the best at what we do.
Also, Sue – what a legend and what a pleasure it was. It’s like she’s been part of the team forever!
Lucy Hastings
Meeting our clients face to face and being able to build a human-to-human relationship, and not just talking ‘shop’, was a real highlight for me.
Team bonding was a big part of it too, and it was amazing to finally meet Sue in person!
Overall, a really successful VMX with some solid connections made – reinforcing the value of being able to offer a truly global service.
Sue Reid
By far my most important takeaways from VMX were threefold: team, tenacity, and trust. Spending quality time with the US team was, without question, the most enjoyable part of the VMX experience.
Adam set the stage by clearly articulating the vision for GVC and our global commitment to the veterinary community – and by trusting that the team he has built will execute on that vision.
It was equally impressive to see the depth of work and the genuine partnerships the US team has established over the past three years in building GVC’s foundation. Kudos to Michael, Steve and Lucy – it was SO great to finally meet in person, and I’m truly honoured to work alongside you all.
VMX would not have been the success it was without the tenacity of both the team in attendance and our extended team back at base. Knowing, believing, and trusting that we would overcome every hurdle along the way made the success of this event even more meaningful.
Why VMX Matters to GVC
Across every takeaway, one theme was consistent: GVC is present, invested, and listening.
VMX isn’t about showing up once a year – it’s about staying close to the realities of the veterinary industry, understanding where pressure points are, and building partnerships that last.
From deepening trust with long-standing clients to introducing GVC to new corners of the market, VMX 2026 reinforced that the work we’re doing (globally and locally) is landing in the right way.
And we’re only just getting started.
