Winton’s ‘rock’ becomes local shareholder

Production animal vet Keryn Cresswell has become the latest of our experienced vets to buy into VetSouth.

Many of our Winton clients will recognise Keryn Creswell as a talented and dedicated production animal vet at VetSouth. 

After around 12.5 years of working with us, Keryn has decided to buy into the business, becoming the latest local shareholder and further strengthening our ties to the communities in which we work.

Keryn started her vet career with us as a mixed animal vet, but now focuses on production animals (mainly dairy cows) and is the resident alpaca specialist.

Originally from Lauder in Central Otago, Keryn has lived all over NZ and even had a few stints based in Samoa and Rarotonga. She got her veterinary degree at Massey University, then studied for a Master of Tropical Vet Science and a PhD at James Cook University in Townsville, Queensland. 

Keryn was also involved in an NZAid project in Sri Lanka through the NZ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), until Covid put an end to international travel. 

So, why did Keryn decide to buy into the company?

“I like the Here For Good ethos and the focus on people/community at VetSouth. 

“I feel that there is a good team culture here and I’m also interested in sustainability and regeneration and would like to be part of VetSouth’s sustainability journey.” 

Vince Sharp, CEO of our parent-company, VetNZ, welcomed Keryn aboard, while highlighting the importance of maintaining local ownership:

“We have always had local shareholders as part of who we are as a veterinary business.

“Having local employees who have lived our values and purpose while becoming part of the community they work in is a huge part of our success. Having some of these people choose to invest into the business for the long term further brings us together and connects the business with our people and the communities we work in.”

Georgette Wouda, fellow shareholder and Winton’s clinical head, added:

“Keryn is a great mentor to younger vets, our stable rock in the vet office and, most of the time, a bit of a walking encyclopedia.

“She researches stuff well, does great write-ups and is, in general, just a very pleasant, reliable part of the Winton team!” 

Congratulations Keryn, and welcome to the shareholding team!