Haine & Smith names new partner

Wiltshire-based independent optical chain Haine & Smith has welcomed new partner Thom Pears on board.

He becomes the ninth current member of the Haine & Smith partnership, which also includes four optometrists and three dispensing opticians.

Pears joined Haine & Smith as an IT technician in 2006 and now, as technical director, oversees the information systems at the firm’s 19 practices, glazing lab and head office in Pewsey.

His role was pivotal during the installation of Haine & Smith’s latest computer systems, helping the company win ‘Software Practice of the Year’ at the 2014 Optician Awards. He is pictured (centre) with senior partner Barry Smith (right) and his son Giles.