Leightons boss joins Specsavers Australia

Neale Pugh, managing director of Leightons Opticians, has resigned to join Specsavers in Australia as a development director for its first stores in the state of Victoria.

Pugh has headed the family-owned Leightons business for the past 12 years and he will be replaced by the current professional services director Sue Cockayne.

In a statement Leighton's chairman, Richard Leighton said: 'Neale is returning to his native Australia to take up a new position there. I would like to publicly thank Neale for his significant contribution to the company.'

Leighton confirmed the appointment of Cockayne adding: 'Sue Cockayne, who has worked alongside Neale as professional services director, will be taking on the role of managing director from March 1.'