Bob Hughes leaves the AOP

AOP boss Bob Hughes has left the organisation ‘to pursue new career opportunities’.

He leaves his position of CEO after nearly seven years in charge.

David Shannon, chairman of the Association of Optometrists, said: ‘During his time as CEO Bob has raised our profile and that of optometry significantly in parliament and with the public.

‘He has been central to the development of much closer working relationships with the other optical bodies and especially FODO; a move which resulted in the creation of the Optical Confederation.’

The AOP was unable to provide further details about the sudden departure.

Hughes said: ‘I am proud to leave the AOP with increased capabilities to promote optometry, with friends in all political parties and in the NHS administration, and a first class defence team able to stand alongside individual optometrists when they come under attack.’