Growing Great Leaders: How Ethos Invests in Its People
June 11, 2025
At Ethos, strong leadership is the cornerstone of our culture and essential to achieving our shared purpose of enriching the lives of pets and people. That’s why we launched Leadership Development Journeys, a transformational initiative designed to support leadership growth at every level of our organization.
A Culture Built on Listening and Learning
Last year, team members told us they wanted more opportunities for leadership growth and clearer pathways for development. In response, our Community team created Leadership Development Journeys — a robust, hands-on training experience designed specifically for the real-world challenges leaders face.
These journeys are about more than professional development — they’re about shaping a unified culture of leadership across every hospital while honoring the uniqueness of each location.
“Starting our leaders off with a consistent foundation sets the stage for success. This program covers everything — from systems and procedures to ongoing support,” said Cheryl Rizzo, Operations Support Manager.
Learning that Makes a Lasting Impact
Participants engage in a dynamic curriculum rooted in Ethos’ defined leadership capabilities — including effective communication, team development, and driving results. Through tiered programming and scenario-based learning, team members gain practical tools they can apply immediately in their hospitals.
“Using a sports analogy, I finally feel like I have a playbook with many different plays that can all be successful,” said Dwayne Garland, Hospital Director at Bulger Veterinary Hospital.
The experience goes beyond formal sessions. By learning alongside a supportive peer cohort and applying new tools in real time, leaders grow in confidence and effectiveness.
“The communication toolkit has given me the skills to have meaningful and productive discussions with my team,” shared Patrick McKinnon, Hospital Director at Animal Specialty & Emergency Center.
Respecting What Makes Us Different. Strengthening What Brings Us Together.
As part of our One Ethos vision, Leadership Development Journeys support a shared leadership framework while recognizing each hospital’s identity. This balance drives unity without uniformity, and it’s already having a transformative impact.
“Having a structured baseline of leadership principles has made my check-ins and conversations with my team more effective,” said Dr. Shane Turner, Medical Director at Animal Medical Center of Seattle.
“This journey has brought important leadership qualities to the surface and helped me grow as a servant leader,” added Paul Trevino, Hospital Director at MissionVet Specialty & Emergency.
Investing in People, Elevating the Profession
Leadership Development Journeys are changing how individuals lead. They’re strengthening teams, shaping culture, and supporting the future of veterinary medicine.
“Ethos is leading the way by investing in its people holistically — not just clinically,” said Angela Castillo, Hospital Director at Premier Veterinary Group Chicago. “Programs like this create a ripple effect that touches every aspect of care and culture.”
Dr. Grant Ramsey, Medical Director at MissionVet, called the program a “major standout.” “Ethos is committed to developing both business and medical leaders in a comprehensive way. I have colleagues at other companies who don’t have anything like this.”
We’re developing leaders who inspire hope, enrich lives, and shape the future of veterinary medicine.