New regional lead in Northern Ireland
New ABDO regional lead in Northern Ireland, Chris McConnell
ABDO has welcomed Chris McConnell as its new regional lead for Northern Ireland.
A dispensing optician based in Belfast, Chris has more than a decade of experience in both independent and multiple practice, as well as hands-on experience as a glazing lab technician.
Chris qualified as a dispensing optician through ABDO College in 2020, and now serves as the ABDO representative on the Optometry Northern Ireland committee.
He said: “I am proud to be a dispensing optician, and believe that the knowledge and training within the profession are integral to the continued growth of the optical industry and to strengthening its role within community-based eyecare services.
“Alongside the ABDO regional team, I am keen to support collaboration, professional development, and to help ensure a strong and representative voice for dispensing opticians across Northern Ireland.”
ABDO regional leads play a vital role within the clinical and policy team, helping to deliver the organisation’s strategy around the evolving roles of dispensing opticians in UK practices.
They also contribute to the ongoing development and support of members throughout every stage of their careers. By offering a local point of contact, regional leads are uniquely positioned to understand and respond to the needs of members across different localities and nations, ensuring tailored support and guidance where it’s needed most.
Commenting on the appointment, Max Halford, ABDO clinical and policy director, said: “I am delighted to welcome Chris as ABDO’s new regional lead for Northern Ireland. As a dispensing optician with significant experience running a group of opticians in the region, Chris brings a strong organisational perspective alongside a clear understanding of the realities of frontline practice and patient care.
“His insight, leadership and existing involvement within Northern Ireland’s optical community, including committee membership of Optometry Northern Ireland, give me real confidence that he will play a key role in supporting members and helping to drive forward forthcoming contract reforms for the benefit of dispensing opticians and patients alike.”
Chris takes over from Steven Harding, who has stepped into the vice chair role at Optometry Northern Ireland. ABDO thanked Steven for his work in Northern Ireland and wished him luck in his new role.