Phillipa started her career in zoo medicine in 2003 at Paignton Zoo. During her 4 years at Paignton Zoo she worked as an animal keeper and general assistant in the veterinary department. During this time she undertook a degree in Animal Science at Plymouth University. Phillipa then went on to study veterinary medicine and qualified in July 2011 from The Royal Veterinary College. In September 2012 she started work as Veterinary Associate at Twycross Zoo and in July 2020 became the Veterinary Services Manager. She is the clinical lead for the Ape heart project at Twycross Zoo. She attained her RCVS Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice (Zoological medicine) in 2019 and became a diplomat of the European college following completion of the residency in Zoo health management in May 2023. She is the chair of the BIAZA Veterinary Focus group, veterinary advisor for the BIAZA Mammal working group and BIAZA Primate subgroup and the veterinary advisor for the Siamang and Bush dog EEP. She is also on the committee for UK Zoo vet group and is a ZIMS for Medical ambassador for the UK.