New FEI Veterinary Director
16 years ago StraightArrow Comments Off on New FEI Veterinary Director
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, Aug. 10–The International Equestrian Federation (FEI) announced Monday the appointment of Graeme Cooke of Great Britain as the FEI Veterinary Director.
Originally from Northern Ireland, Graeme worked for six years as a Senior Policy Adviser to the UK Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) with expertise in contingency planning, international trade and devising national strategies.
He directed teams dealing with a variety of disease outbreaks and supported animal health and welfare policy formation at the highest level, both nationally and internationally. Having an earlier extensive background in referral level equine clinical practice which gave him an understanding of the challenges of horse sport disciplines at many levels, he became the UK government lead on all matters relating to equine health, seeking to provide practical and clear solutions. Having competed himself, he has also acted as a veterinarian at international Eventing competitions, and as an escorting veterinarian for large shipments of horses in air transport to the USA and the Middle East.
Cooke holds a masters degree in veterinary medicine from Selwyn College, University of Cambridge, and attained an MBA with first class honors from Cass Business School.
Alex McLin, FEI Secretary General, said: “I am honoured to welcome a professional of Graeme’s stature to the FEI. His practical knowledge of veterinary medicine coupled with an outstanding academic and management record made him the ideal candidate for one of the key positions in this organisation. He joins the FEI at a crucial moment and will be instrumental in taking key projects forward.”
Cooke said: “I am very happy to be taking up my new role. I am a firm believer in the values of sport and the importance of clean and fair competition. Ensuring the welfare of the horse is my highest priority, and I very much looking forward to working with the many passionate groups of people who strive to make horse sport the best it can be in all ways.”
