EXCITING JOB OPPORTUNITY

Job description for Secretary General

Animal Health Distributors Association (UK) Ltd (AHDA)

About Us

AHDA is primarily the association representing the companies who support farm animal, equine and companion animal retailing and prescribing of veterinary medicines, not needing a diagnosis, across the UK. AHDA champions the interests of businesses and organisations dedicated to advancing animal health, high welfare standards, and the safe, sustainable supply of veterinary medicines to the POM-VPS sector. We ensure our sector’s voice is heard at the highest levels of government, regulatory bodies, and the wider animal health and welfare industry.

The Role

As Secretary General, you will serve by providing leadership and operational oversight. You will be the public face of AHDA, working closely with the Council to shape policy, deliver value to members, and provide financial sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Governance

  • Develop and deliver the association’s strategic plan.
  • Provide transparent governance support to the Board and committees.
  • Ensure financial sustainability through robust budget management.
  • Manage and deliver the annual AHDA Conference

Policy & Regulation

  • Work with key partners and registration bodies supporting the POM-VPS sector.
  • Lead lobbying efforts with UK Government ministers, DEFRA, the VMD, and the VMD’s European counterparts when needed.
  • Help shape industry policy positions on veterinary medicine regulations, animal welfare standards, and trade through key organisations and associations.
  • Position the association as a trusted partner in animal health and welfare.

Member Engagement & Growth

  • Retain current members and recruit new members to expand the association’s footprint.
  • Deliver technical insights, regulatory updates, and support to members.
  • Maintain good relationships with member companies, sector professionals, and scientific stakeholders.

Operational Management

  • Lead and develop AHDA Council as a high-performing team.
  • Oversee day-to-day operations, legal compliance, and risk management

The Candidate

Experience

  • Senior leadership within a membership/trade association, regulatory body, public affairs agency, or animal health and welfare role.
  • Background within the animal health, veterinary, pharmaceutical, or agricultural sectors.
  • Knowledge of UK political systems, Defra, and healthcare or veterinary medicine regulations.
  • Experience working with a non-executive Board.

 

Skills & Attributes

  • Ability to understand and communicate scientific and regulatory data.
  • Communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
  • Commercial knowledge with experience managing budgets and revenue streams.
  • Broad mindset with the ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders.
  • Political understanding and analytical skills.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a covering letter detailing your suitability for the role to admin@ahda.co.uk by July 31st 2026.