Jim Nash, MHA, CVPM
Like many managers, Jim started his leadership career a long way from veterinary medicine. He served as a Warrant Officer and Aviator during Desert Storm where he flew OH-58 Scout helicopters in an armored cavalry squadron. Jim believes that being a good leader is about being a great team member first. He also feels that the loyalty, dedication, and commitment that he learned in the military are the fundamental transferable skills that lead to success.
After completing his military service, he attended the University of Florida where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master's degree in Healthcare Administration. After working in human healthcare, Jim transitioned to Veterinary Medicine in 2004 when became the Hospital Administrator of a five-DVM general practice in Colorado. Over the next four years, he helped grow and develop this Hospital into a ten-DVM, 24-hour, three-location, general, and emergency hospital. It was during this time that Jim was afforded the opportunity of practice ownership. He has also worked as a practice consultant and international speaker.
Jim returned to Florida from Colorado in 2011, where he purchased and developed two general practices. After the sale of these practices, he became the COO of a 15-DVM General, Emergency & Specialty Referral Center. In 2017, Jim founded AscendVets, which has become a multi-practice organization focused on developing people to achieve their dreams by caring for people and pets. Jim believes that we have a responsibility as leaders and managers to advocate for our team members, practices and industry. Jim has been a VHMA member since 2004 and earned the CVPM designation in 2008. He has had the privilege to serve on the VHMA Board of Directors for 13 years in the role of Director, Treasurer, Vice President, President and Past President.