Association alliance, the Optical Confederation (OC), is facing an uncertain future following the announcement that chairman Chris Hunt is to step down when his two-year tenure ends later this month.
The Confederation has also placed itself under internal review and will consider how it can move forward with its development. No new replacement chair will be appointed until the review has been completed and the position will rotate around member bodies ABDO, the ACLM, AOP, FMO and FODO.
Hunt said: ‘I have greatly enjoyed my role as chairman of the OC and have gained a real insight into the ability of the member organisations to work together for the benefit of the sector and the patients we serve.
‘However, I now feel it is the right time to return to my wider interests in optics and take up other opportunities which I have put on hold whilst chairing the OC. I will maintain a close interest in its the work and will continue to advocate the merits of a single voice for optics.’
Speaking on behalf of the OC, Sir Tony Garrett thanked Hunt for his efforts and said he would be missed.
The Confederation maintained that there was still a place for an industry and association alliance. ‘With so much going on in community optics and the NHS, a united front is essential,’ said a spokesperson for the organisation.
