Natalie Marks, DVM, CVJ, CCFP, Elite FFCP-V

I attribute my success to hard work, empathy, and a commitment to community. As a veterinarian, I approach every situation with kindness and understanding, striving to put myself in others’ shoes. Leading with empathy allows me to be patient, adaptable, and thoughtful in my decisions, and I aim to extend that approach to support and uplift those around me.

I would offer two key pieces of advice to young women entering this field. First, don’t take feedback personally. Whether it’s constructive critique or unsolicited input, approach it with curiosity and a willingness to learn rather than defensiveness. Second, always lead with empathy. We often judge others quickly, not realizing the challenges they may be facing behind the scenes. Practicing empathy cultivates patience, adaptability, and grace, helping you navigate relationships and decisions thoughtfully, both professionally and personally.

One of the biggest opportunities in my field right now is uniting the animal health ecosystem. Many groups currently operate in silos, and I’m focused on fostering collaborations and partnerships that can drive efficiency and innovation across the industry. At the same time, while our profession is over 87% female, leadership roles and C-suite positions remain predominantly male. Over the past two decades, women have been steadily breaking into decision-making, practice ownership, and strategic leadership. My goal is for companies like VANE to model true gender equality—where leadership reflects the profession itself and women can thrive based on merit, not token representation.

The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are empathy, collaboration, integrity, and impact. I strive to lead with understanding, putting myself in others’ shoes—whether in medicine, business, or life. I believe strongly in the power of community and in fostering connections that drive innovation, and I am committed to gender equality in leadership so our profession reflects the people who make it up.

Outside of work, I prioritize family, wellness, and personal growth. As a mother of three, I balance my professional responsibilities with coaching softball, adventure travel—including climbing Mount Kilimanjaro—running marathons, and practicing hot yoga, which helps me maintain mental clarity, resilience, and balance. These passions ground me and sustain my energy for leadership.