Leadership Overview
American Veterinary Group has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial planning, human resources, and urgent-care operations.
Committed to elevating veterinary standards, American Veterinary Group empowers animal hospitals through comprehensive operational support and clinical excellence to ensure superior patient outcomes across the entire network.
Committed to elevating veterinary standards, American Veterinary Group empowers animal hospitals through comprehensive operational support and clinical excellence to ensure superior patient outcomes across the entire network.
Leadership Roles at American Veterinary Group
Craig Niebur - Chief Executive Officer
Craig Niebur, the Chief Executive Officer at American Veterinary Group, directs the overarching strategic vision and long-term growth trajectory for the entire veterinary healthcare network. By aligning clinical leadership with hospital operations, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that every partner practice maintains high standards of medical care. Craig Niebur monitors market trends across the United States to identify expansion opportunities for general practices and urgent-care clinics. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to optimize resource allocation and drive sustainable financial performance. Through the implementation of robust operational frameworks, the Chief Executive Officer strengthens the human-animal bond while fostering a culture of compassion. By prioritizing scalable business models, the Chief Executive Officer secures the competitive position of the organization within the veterinary industry. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer maintains the integrity of the mission while scaling the footprint of the company.
Fred Weidig - Chief Financial Officer
Fred Weidig, the Chief Financial Officer at American Veterinary Group, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies necessary for supporting veterinary hospital growth. Overseeing financial reporting, budgeting, and revenue cycle management, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that all clinics operate with maximum efficiency. Fred Weidig evaluates investment opportunities in new urgent-care facilities and general practice acquisitions to expand the national presence of the organization. This role requires close coordination with the executive team to align financial goals with clinical objectives. By implementing rigorous financial controls, the Chief Financial Officer mitigates risk and enhances profitability across the entire network. The Chief Financial Officer also directs the financial planning processes that allow for continuous investment in medical technology and staff development. Through precise data analysis and strategic forecasting, the Chief Financial Officer provides the foundation for long-term stability and operational success within the veterinary healthcare sector.
Jim Dobies - President, UrgentVet Division
Jim Dobies, the President, UrgentVet Division at American Veterinary Group, directs the operational expansion and clinical performance of the urgent-care clinic network. By focusing on the specific needs of after-hours and emergency veterinary services, the President, UrgentVet Division ensures that clinics provide accessible, high-quality care to pet owners. Jim Dobies oversees the integration of new urgent-care locations into the broader organizational framework, ensuring consistency in service delivery and medical standards. This role involves managing the unique operational challenges of urgent-care environments, including staffing logistics and patient flow optimization. By driving efficiency in the urgent-care model, the President, UrgentVet Division supports the overall growth objectives of the company. The President, UrgentVet Division also collaborates with clinical leadership to refine medical protocols and enhance the client experience. Through strategic oversight of the division, the President, UrgentVet Division maintains the reputation of the organization as a leader in urgent veterinary healthcare.
Susan Gunsher - Chief People Officer
Susan Gunsher, the Chief People Officer at American Veterinary Group, architects the human resources strategy, recruitment initiatives, and professional training programs that define the workforce culture. By focusing on talent acquisition and retention, the Chief People Officer ensures that every hospital maintains a team of highly skilled veterinary professionals. Susan Gunsher oversees the development of internal career pathways and educational resources to support the growth of clinical staff. This leadership role involves creating inclusive environments that prioritize employee well-being and professional satisfaction. By aligning human capital strategies with the broader mission of the organization, the Chief People Officer drives operational excellence and high-quality patient care. The Chief People Officer also manages organizational design and performance management systems to foster a culture of accountability. Through these efforts, the Chief People Officer strengthens the ability of the company to attract top-tier talent in a competitive healthcare market.