Kim Koerner began her veterinary journey over 40 years ago as a Certified Veterinary Technician at Plymouth Heights Pet Hospital in Minnesota—her very first job out of tech school. From a young age, she knew she was meant to work with animals. “I was the kid who brought home snakes and frogs and anything I could catch,” she says. But the moment that truly shaped her path came at age 10, after her family cat was euthanized. The care and kindness shown by the veterinary team during that difficult experience left a lasting impression. “It opened my eyes to this whole world of helping animals and people. I knew I wanted to be part of it.”
From Technician to Regional Leader
Kim’s career has spanned every aspect of hospital operations—from patient care to marketing, HR, and financial management. After years as a CVT, she went back to school for business and accounting, eventually becoming the hospital administrator at Plymouth Heights. When the hospital’s founding doctor began considering retirement, Kim was involved in evaluating potential partners. “We met with a number of groups, but Lakefield stood out,” she says. “They were down to earth and shared the same values we had worked so hard to build.”
After Plymouth Heights Pet Hospital joined Lakefield Veterinary Group in 2015, Kim stayed on as hospital administrator—but soon found herself helping other practices in need of leadership. That support work evolved into a formal role as Area Manager, and eventually, she became a Regional Director of Operations. “I wouldn’t have had these opportunities without Lakefield,” she says. “They’ve supported me every step of the way.”
Building Stronger Teams and Better Culture
Ask Kim what she’s most proud of, and it’s not a single moment—it’s the ripple effect of strong leadership. “My passion is building better cultures and helping people grow,” she explains. “Whether it’s coaching through tough situations, improving communication, or simply making sure people feel supported—those are the things that matter most to me.” Her experience across roles has given her the unique ability to relate to every level of the hospital team and offer guidance rooted in real-world knowledge.
Leading With Empathy and Integrity
In her role today, Kim supports hospitals through both challenges and transitions. “When we acquire a new practice, I don’t walk in saying, ‘This is the Lakefield way.’ I ask, ‘How can we help you build on the amazing practice you’ve already created?’” That values-first approach helps her earn trust with teams who may be wary of change. And it’s personal—Kim remembers having the same concerns when Lakefield purchased her hospital. “It was scary. But it turned out to be the best thing that’s ever happened to me professionally.”
A Legacy of Kind Leadership
Looking back, Kim hopes her legacy is one of empathy, growth, and positive impact. “I’ve had to make tough calls and have hard conversations, but I hope people remember me as a kind, caring leader—someone who made their practice better, not just operationally, but emotionally too— I always try to lead with heart.”
