Optometrist of the Year sponsored by SpaMedica
Winner: Gerard Fernandes, Lynne Fernandes Optometrists
Finalists:
• Dr Amritpreet Basra, Edwards & Walker Opticians
• Peter Greedy, petergreedy.com
• Michael O’Kane, Specsavers Morningside and Cameran Toll
• Piyus Tanna, Inspiring Success, Menicon and Vision Express
Gerard Fernandes, clinical director of Lynne Fernandes Optometrists (LFO), was entered into the Optician Awards by his wife and business partner, Lynne Fernandes, who describes him as the ‘driving force behind LFO’.
Judges highlighted Fernandes’ outstanding clinical skills and commitment to continuous learning, developing colleagues and advancing the profession.
From average student to award-winning optometrist
Fernandes’ interest in optics began early, driven by an appreciation for the impact that clear, comfortable vision can have on people’s daily lives.
He trained as an optometrist at Aston University and Manchester Eye Hospital before pursuing City courses, the Institute of Optometry course, a professional diploma in glaucoma at Bristol Eye Hospital and an independent prescribing qualification.
‘I’ve always been passionate about personal growth,’ he tells Optician. He has since taken Aston University modules, such as research statistics, working towards a Master’s degree.
‘I was actually an average student, as I regularly remind my supervisors,’ says Fernandes, who was often more interested in areas outside the syllabus that were not necessarily relevant to routine optometry at the time.
An electric night
Fernandes describes winning the Optician Award as an incredible moment, both humbling and deeply rewarding. He explains: ‘Optometry is a field filled with so many talented professionals, and to be recognised at this level is an absolute honour.’
For Fernandes, the award is a reflection of the work the team does at the practice and their commitment to exceptional eye care. ‘This recognition reinforces my passion for innovation in optics, and it motivates me even more to keep raising the bar for patient care,’ he says.
Fernandes vividly recalls the awards night, describing the atmosphere as electric and the entire experience as truly honouring.
‘The awards night was a fantastic experience – an evening filled with inspiration, celebration and the chance to connect with so many passionate professionals in the industry. It was great to see the incredible work being done across the field, from innovative clinical practices to outstanding patient care.’
Asked if he would encourage others to take part, he said: ‘I would absolutely encourage others to enter. Awards like this shine a spotlight on the dedication and expertise within optometry, and they help showcase the value of eye care.’
Regardless of the outcome, Fernandes sees the experience as invaluable. He says that, win or lose, the process itself is a great opportunity to reflect on achievements and gain recognition for the work one does. He also highlights the chance to meet inspirational professionals and be challenged by new ideas in the industry.
A rewarding workplace
Until recently, the practice had not needed to recruit in seven years. The situation has changed since the awards – following the departure of the clinical lead optometrist leaving the company in February to become a Hakim Group partner – yet Fernandes views this as a testament to LFO’s ability to develop its employees.
‘Like her predecessor, who is now a director of a myopia management company, I take pride in her achievements,’ he says. ‘I feel this demonstrates that LFO offers a brilliant environment to the optometrist who wants to grow and provide excellence within a trusted environment.’
Fernandes outlines what makes the practice an attractive place to work: ‘I believe LFO stands out because we offer an opportunity to practise optometry to a level that is both clinically fulfilling and professionally rewarding. Our optometrists have the time to build real relationships with patients, offer tailored solutions, and work with some of the best independent eyewear and lens technology available.’
He also credits his team for their shared commitment to growth, excellence and trust, which creates a strong, supportive culture. ‘I think that’s why so many optometrists want to be part of what we do,’ he says.
Exciting times ahead
Fernandes reflects on what is on the horizon for him and for LFO. As he puts it, LFO will continue to push the boundaries of what independent optometry can offer. The practice is always looking at ways to enhance its EyeSense approach – a personalised, predictive and preventative clinical eye care plan – ensuring its patients receive the best possible eye care.
He is keen to encourage his team to engage in more practice-based research, auditing and reviewing its standard operating procedures against the available evidence.
Fernandes shares what motivates him: ‘For me personally, I’m passionate about sharing the value of independent optometry more widely. Whether that’s mentoring the next generation of optometrists, collaborating on industry innovations, or continuing to refine the patient experience at LFO, the goal is always to set new standards in eye care.
‘Exciting things are ahead,’ he tells Optician, ‘I can’t wait to see how we continue to evolve.’
