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On April 10, I attended the Business of Animals panel. As someone who has always loved animals but never really thought about how that passion could intersect with a business degree, this event completely shifted my perspective. The panel featured Bentley alumni John McDonough ’86, CEO of Veterinary Practice Partners (VPP), and Rich Pacheco ’96, the company’s COO. Both leaders brought forward invaluable insights, not just about the veterinary industry, but also about leadership, growth, and authenticity.
The conversation began with a deep dive into the mission and model of Veterinary Practice Partners. VPP is a management company that partners with veterinarians to co-own and operate clinics across the country. While veterinarians focus on clinical care and client services, VPP takes charge of everything behind the scenes, including marketing, finance, HR, IT, and operations. It’s a powerful partnership model that allows each party to thrive in their area of expertise. With over 60 partner hospitals and a place on the Inc. 5000 list, VPP’s success speaks for itself.
What struck me most was how strongly both John and Rich credited their Bentley experience for preparing them for success. John spoke about how his time at Bentley gave him not only a solid foundation in accounting and business but also the courage to take risks and the humility to learn from failure. He emphasized the importance of strong relationships, saying, “Success should be measured by the achievements of those around you.”
Rich brought a similarly people-focused perspective. As COO, he described himself as a problem solver, someone who supports the team and helps everyone do their best work. His advice around career growth was refreshingly real. He stated, “It’s not just about climbing the ladder or collecting titles, it’s about creating value, being flexible, and staying curious.” He also highlighted how Bentley helped him adapt to diverse working styles and sharpen his critical thinking skills that are becoming increasingly vital in the age of AI.
An important part of the discussion was about personal branding and hiring. Both panelists stressed the importance of authenticity. Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Instead, embrace your strengths, own your weaknesses, and be honest about your journey. “Employers notice when you’re real, and they appreciate it.”
Events like this remind me just how many career paths are out there that combine business with purpose. Bentley has been doing an incredible job hosting panels and talks that open students’ eyes to new opportunities.
*Thank you to Lillian Flaherty for her helpful notes for this EVENT*
