GlobalVetLink logo
Kevin Maher, the founder of GlobalVetLINK (GVL®), the Ames-based animal health software technology company, announced this week that he will be stepping away from the daily operations of the company to devote more time to new business ideas in the US and abroad. Mr. Maher will remain involved with GVL as a member of their Board of Managers, an owner and a consultant.

"Kevin epitomizes entrepreneurial spirit. He created an environment where his team could learn, grow and contribute to the success of the company. I'm extremely grateful for the opportunities I've been given, working with Kevin and GlobalVetLINK over the past seven years. Kevin's positive attitude and spirit will be missed around the office," states GVL Product Manager, Kaylen Henry.

Maher graduated from Iowa State University with a BS in Animal Science and a passion for the animal health industry. He realized the vision for GlobalVetLINK through his work with electronic identification systems in Europe along with his experience as a director of Pig Improvement Company's (PIC) Swine Information Division. In 1999, Maher founded GVL with a vision to replace an archaic paper-based animal health regulatory process with a digital animal health software system that is accessible real-time via the Internet. Beginning in a time when the internet was new and amid the dot-com busts of the 90's, Maher was ahead of his time in the animal health industry. Although it took over 10 years to make his dream of a digital solution approved for use in all 50 states a reality, his persistence and belief in his product paid off when he gained approval from the 50th state in the fall of 2010.

Jill Wagner, GVL's Integration Channel Manager and a 10-year veteran with GlobalVetLINK and Kevin Maher, offers similar sentiments. "With a passion for the animal health industry and a knack for recognizing good talent, Kevin built a business revolving around relationships and technology. His upbeat personality and encouraging thoughts created a positive work environment. His absence will be felt."

As a true innovator in the animal health community, Mr. Maher has, and will continue to serve the industry. He serves on the National Institute for Animal Agriculture Board of Directors, the United States Animal Health Association as vice-chair of the Committee on Livestock Identification (and several committees), serves on Iowa State University's CyBiz Board, and served on the Biosciences Committee for the Iowa Department of Economic Development.

When asked for comment, Kevin Maher shared, "I am very thankful for our team, as well as for the nationwide adoption of GlobalVetLINK's vision; demonstrating the recognition of the need, as well as our passion to improve and protect our nation's animal health. Many thanks to the private practicing veterinarians, state and federal animal health officials, animal health diagnostic laboratories, animal owners, and industry, that have grasped our vision and participated via GlobalVetLINK's innovative solutions. I remain very enthused about GlobalVetLINK's future, and to future contributions as a board member and owner, building on the passion and innovation that has built our company."

GlobalVetLINK (GVL®) was founded in 2001 and is the nation's leader in digital animal health records, providing intuitive online certification solutions that enable animal health practitioners to quickly and accurately create professional health records. Their services embrace both companion and food animal where animal health practitioners and their clients can manage their records at any time and from anywhere with Internet access. The GVL® system uniquely connects veterinarians, animal owners, animal diagnostic laboratories, industry partners, and government officials to improve overall animal wellness and safety. GlobalVetLINK services support animal health practitioners to establish protocols that will help improve their business in all aspects including saving money and time.
Return to Industry Buzz.

9.19.2014