Joanna Galligano-Kuranovich, CVPM, CVBL, CCFP
Joanna Galligano-Kuranovich, CVPM, CVBL, CCFP, is currently serving as Certified Veterinary Practice Manager at Sachem Animal Hospital and is a highly accomplished veterinary practice leader with over 13 years in the veterinary field, including nine years in hospital management. She has developed a deep expertise in building practices that are efficient, financially strong, and supportive for both staff and clients. Joanna began her career as an aspiring veterinary technician, where she gained firsthand knowledge of clinical operations. Noticing operational inefficiencies, she pursued business education and advanced to earn her Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) credential, demonstrating comprehensive knowledge across finances, human resources, legal considerations, and veterinary terminology. She oversees a four-doctor practice and collaborates as a peer development partner at NVA. Her responsibilities include managing finances, staff, schedules, and inventory, while partnering to set budgets and goals for the doctors. In addition to her CVPM certification, she holds the Certified Veterinary Business Leader (CVBL) credential from the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) and is a Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional (CCFP), reflecting her commitment to professional excellence, team well-being, and continuous growth. Joanna credits inspiration from ongoing collaboration with peers at similar management levels for shaping her leadership journey. Looking ahead, Joanna aspires to advance into multi-site hospital management and field leadership, mentoring managers across practices to reach their full potential. She emphasizes the importance of long-term commitment to the field and fostering a culture of collaboration, recognition, and care. Beyond her professional achievements, Joanna is passionate about cultivating cohesive, resilient teams, celebrating milestones, and ensuring high-quality veterinary care. Her career reflects a rare blend of operational expertise, strategic vision, and dedication to both animals and the professionals who care for them.
• Certified Veterinary Business Leader
• Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional
• Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM)
• Certificate of Active Listening
• Post University - BSBA, Management
• Member, National Society of Leadership and Success
What do you attribute your success to?
Earning the CVPM credential after rigorous preparation, taking initiative to improve hospital operations (for example, creating an inventory system), and pursuing further education (a business degree) while balancing family life.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Great leaders make great leaders.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
"Make sure you're in it for the long run. It's not something you just wake up and decide to do. Be willing to sacrifice time and stay committed to continuing education. If your heart is in it, it's very satisfying and fulfilling."
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
High rates of burnout, compassion fatigue, depression, and suicide in the veterinary profession; a need to break stigma and build support systems. The field is constantly changing, creating ongoing needs for education, improved managerial systems, and leadership development.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Compassion, teamwork, continuous learning, and balancing high-quality patient care with sustainable business growth.
