NAVTA seeks new management

Battle Ground, Ind. - 12/18/07 - After almost two decades, the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) has parted ways with their management company, leaving the organization searching for a new executive director.

At a November meeting, NAVTA's executive board rejected the proposed 2008 contract with their overseeing management company - led by Patrick Navarre, NAVTA's current executive director. He will step down Jan. 1.

Members have had mixed reactions to the news, says Terri Raffel, CVT and NAVTA president. "So far, some are wondering why, some are wishing him well on his retirement and some are wondering what it means for NAVTA's future," she says.

Navarre led NAVTA through many milestones, including membership growth from 400 to 4,400, collaboration with the Canadian Association for Animal Health Technicians and Technologists, and the establishment of National Veterinary Technician Week , the Committee on Veterinary Technician Specialties and working relationships with the American Veterinary Medical Association , American Association of Veterinary State Boards and the Association of Veterinary Technician Educators , Raffel says.

With key duties including the representation of NAVTA to industry leaders and corporate sponsors and partners, oversight of association finances, membership processing and the role of spokesperson, the executive director position must be filled by someone that is "preferably a graduate-credentialed technician with association management experience," Raffel says.

Anyone interested in applying can visit the web sites of NAVTA , American Animal Hospital Association and Veterinary Career Network for more information on requirements and deadlines.