VetPartners Australia and New Zealand: Company Profile

Background

Founded in 2016, VetPartners is the largest provider of veterinary services in Australia and New Zealand, with a growing presence in Singapore. The company operates a network of over 270 community-based general practice clinics and specialty hospitals, delivering compassionate pet care across more than 3.2 million visits annually. VetPartners' mission is to provide world-class pet healthcare to local communities, supporting teams to learn and grow with unmatched access to training, investment in innovation and equipment, and by providing essential services so that they can focus on the most important priority: their patients.

Key Strategic Focus

VetPartners' strategic focus centers on delivering high-quality, patient-centered veterinary care through a collaborative network of clinics and hospitals. The company emphasizes continuous professional development, investment in advanced diagnostic equipment, and fostering a supportive work environment for its staff. By integrating general practice clinics with specialty hospitals, VetPartners aims to offer comprehensive veterinary services, ranging from preventive healthcare to complex surgical procedures.

Financials and Funding

In October 2023, VetPartners was acquired by BPEA Private Equity Fund VIII, managed by EQT, from National Veterinary Associates, Inc. This acquisition is expected to provide significant investment to ensure VetPartners' clinical teams have access to the latest medical equipment, digital tools, and innovation capabilities. EQT also intends to invest in recruitment initiatives, enhanced training, continued professional development, and mental health programs to support VetPartners' mission.

Leadership Team

VetPartners' leadership team comprises experienced professionals dedicated to advancing veterinary care:

Sinead Ryan: Chief Executive Officer

Dr. Brett Hodgkin: Executive Director Veterinary Advisor

Stephen Druce: Chief Customer Officer

Aaron Beckinsale: Chief Financial Officer

Dr. Russell Harrison: Chief Veterinary Officer

Kieron Martin: Executive Director of Specialty & Emergency

Ben Waterhouse: Chief Information Officer

John Kenny: Chief Transformation Officer

Nick Ford: Executive Director Network

Deborah Grace: Chief People Officer

This team brings a wealth of experience in veterinary medicine, business management, and organizational development, guiding VetPartners' strategic initiatives and operational excellence.

Leadership Changes

In February 2025, Deborah Grace was appointed as the Chief People Officer at VetPartners Australia and New Zealand, where she will lead the People & Culture function for the region's largest veterinary services provider.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The veterinary services industry in Australia and New Zealand is experiencing consolidation, with major players expanding their networks through acquisitions. VetPartners holds approximately 5% of the Australian veterinary market, while its primary competitor, Greencross, has a 6.1% share. The remaining market is fragmented among numerous independent practices.

Competitor Analysis

Greencross: Founded in 1994, Greencross operates the Petbarn, City Farmers, and Greencross Vets chains in Australia, and jointly owns the Animates chain in New Zealand with EBOS Group. The company was acquired by TPG Capital in 2019 and has since expanded its services to include pet crematoria, pet stores, and pathology businesses.

Apiam Animal Health Limited: An ASX-listed public company with approximately 80 clinics, Apiam focuses on both companion animal and production animal services, positioning itself as a significant player in the veterinary industry.

Vets Central: Backed by Pemba Capital Partners, Vets Central has expanded rapidly, acquiring over 45 clinics since its inception in 2021, and is involved in specialty services through investments in veterinary specialist centers.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

VetPartners emphasizes collaboration within its network to enhance service quality and operational efficiency. The company supports its clinics by providing access to industry-leading manufacturer rebates, marketing initiatives, training, and professional continuing professional development through the United Vets Group, the largest membership community of independent veterinary professionals across Australia and New Zealand.

Operational Insights

VetPartners' strategy of maintaining the unique heritage, brand, and culture of each clinic within its network allows for personalized patient care while benefiting from centralized support services. This approach differentiates VetPartners from competitors that may implement more standardized operational models. By investing in advanced diagnostic equipment and fostering a supportive work environment, VetPartners aims to attract and retain top veterinary talent, thereby enhancing its competitive position.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

With the backing of EQT, VetPartners is poised for further expansion and innovation in the veterinary services sector. The company's focus on integrating advanced technologies, enhancing professional development programs, and expanding its network of clinics and specialty hospitals positions it to meet the growing demand for comprehensive pet healthcare services. Additionally, VetPartners' commitment to maintaining the individuality of each practice within its network ensures continued community trust and client loyalty.