The new chairman of the Federation of Manufacturing Opticians, Andrew Actman, has announced his commitment to the organisation becoming 'the voice of the optical industry'.
Speaking at the FMO annual lunch where he took over the chairmanship, he paid tribute to Malcolm Polley's two-year tenure. 'Under Malcolm's helm the FMO has increased its membership and strengthened its role for its members' benefit. Our priority is to draw all the optical bodies and suppliers together to strengthen our collective voice,' said Actman, managing director of Andrew Actman Eyewear.
Newly elected deputy chairman of the FMO is Barry Dibble, managing director of WECO, who provides a manufacturing perspective to Actman's frame focus.
The FMO has for the first time appointed a chief executive in Malcolm Polley with the aim to provide greater suppo
rt to members. He will carry out many of the day-to-day functions of the organisation, aided by FMO executive assistant Sandie Fisher.
'Our members are facing greater challenges than ever before and we are mindful of this. We want to provide more support and have a number of initiatives planned to drive optics forward.
'Our role within the Eye Health Alliance is important and we are committed to securing the professional and financial future of our members,' added Actman.