Post from the president: May

“Meeting and talking with members has been a highlight”

As my time as ABDO president comes to an end, I’ve been taking a moment to look back over the last two years with a real sense of pride, gratitude and optimism.

It’s been a genuine pleasure to serve ABDO, and to represent a profession that continues to show such commitment, flexibility and professionalism in an ever-changing landscape.

Over the course of my presidency, there have been challenges as well as opportunities, all of which have shaped my experience in the role. It’s given me a valuable insight into the wide range of work carried out by dispensing opticians across the UK, and a deeper appreciation of the important part they play in patient care every day.

I’ve been constantly impressed by how our members maintain high professional standards, whilst also being open to new ideas and ways of working.

One of the highlights of the role has been meeting and talking with members, educators, partners, stakeholders and sector bodies – hearing their views and learning from their experiences.

These conversations have really reinforced the importance of ABDO as a supportive, forward‑looking professional body that not only represents its members, but actively stands up for their interests and future development.

I’d like to thank my ABDO Board colleagues, ABDO staff and fellow officers, past and present, for their hard work and professionalism. Their knowledge, generosity and commitment have made a huge difference, and it’s been a real pleasure working alongside them.

No presidency is ever a solo effort. Anything we’ve achieved over the past two years has been down to teamwork, shared goals and mutual support, and I’m sincerely grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way.

As I hand over the presidency to Brenda Rennie [on 13 May], I do so with great confidence in the future of the Association – and with my warmest wishes. I’m sure Brenda will bring energy, insight and strong leadership to the role, and I look forward to seeing ABDO continue to grow and thrive as I take on the role of advisor to the Board for the next two years.

Although my term as president is coming to an end, my commitment to ABDO and to the profession of dispensing optics certainly isn’t.

Thank you for the trust and support you’ve shown me – it’s truly been an honour to serve.