Optometrist Kevin Thompson has been appointed as chairman of the Association of Optometrists (AOP).
Thompson, owner of north east group Thompson Opticians, has taken over the role from Lyndon Taylor and has been on the AOP council since 2007. He described his appointment as a huge honour and privilege.
In a speech to members the recent AOP AGM, Thompson spoke of the potential challenges and threats that faced members and the sector: ‘My focus will be to ensure that the AOP, as the largest membership organisation in the sector, has a loud voice in influencing developments.’
AOP chief executive Henrietta Alderman paid tribute to Taylor and said he had led the organisation through a period of change and improvement. She added: ‘I am confident that Kevin’s experience in the optical sector, which is enhanced by his entrepreneurial credentials, perfectly places him to help lead the AOP into this exciting new chapter of challenge and opportunity.’
Taylor was also presented with honorary membership to the AOP at the AGM, in recognition of his years of outstanding service.
