NASHVILLE, TENN. (October 2024) – Veterinary Innovative Partners (VIP), a network of nearly 70 veterinarian-owned-and-operated hospitals across 12 states, today announced the appointment of Derek Walsh as the organization’s first Chief Operating Officer (COO).
“We are thrilled to welcome Derek to VIP, where he will join our expanding leadership team in Nashville,” said Chris Bishop, CEO of VIP. “Derek’s proven track record in managing multisite healthcare organizations, combined with the strategic leadership he demonstrated in the U.S. Army, makes him a valuable addition to our executive team. I am confident that his ability to optimize operations during rapid growth will be pivotal in maintaining our commitment to delivering unparalleled care across our network while making significant innovations in veterinary medicine.”
As COO, Walsh will play a key role in the development and execution of VIP’s operational strategy. He will focus on building best-in-class service offerings leveraging the company’s strengths to fuel growth and fostering a high-performing, collaborative culture. He also will oversee day-to-day operational management and work closely with the executive team to establish a metrics-driven culture with key performance indicators across all functions.
Walsh brings over 12 years of healthcare leadership experience to his new role. Most recently, he served as COO of Southern Orthodontic Partners, overseeing more than 50 locations. His military service as an officer in the U.S. Army—leading teams in Air and Missile Defense operations across the U.S., South Korea and the Middle East—adds a unique layer of strategic leadership to his background.
“At such a pivotal time in VIP’s growth, I’m honored to join this dynamic and talented team,” said Walsh. “I look forward to collaborating closely with the other members of the leadership team to drive operational success, elevate care and enhance the experience we provide to pets and their families.”
Walsh is based in Nashville, where VIP recently established its new headquarters—strategically positioning the organization for continued nationwide growth and collaboration.
Founded by four veterinarians, VIP was created to provide a better experience for veterinary professionals by offering autonomy, resources and support to combat burnout and foster innovation. Following its most recent acquisition, VIP’s network has grown from 40 to nearly 70 hospitals across Florida, Tennessee, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, Texas, Colorado and California.
About Veterinary Innovative Partners
Veterinary Innovative Partners (VIP) is a network of veterinarian-owned-and-operated hospitals across 12 states. VIP is guided by a mission to provide veterinarians and their teams with all the resources, mentorship, and autonomy they need to thrive personally and professionally while giving pets the best possible care. Join the VIP family, where our team members are our top priority to ensure best-in-class personalized care, ownership and accountability, trust, and an exceptional work environment. Visit our website vip-vet.com, and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook to learn more.