New ABDO vice president installed

ABDO vice president, Deborah Bill

Deborah Bill has been appointed as vice president of ABDO – succeeding Brenda Rennie – following the official handover that took place on 13 May.

Deborah brings more than three decades of experience in dispensing optics, education and clinical governance to her new leadership role. Her longstanding commitment to professional development and patient-focused care positions her strongly to support ABDO’s ongoing mission and strategic priorities, said the Association.

Deborah began her career in dispensing optics at at Leightons Opticians in Reading in March 1990. After qualifying, she progressed through a series of management roles across multiple branches, including Cobham and Camberley.

Receiving the chain of office from Brenda Rennie

In 2001, she was appointed training manager, where she played a pivotal role in supporting trainee dispensing opticians (DOs). Her dedication to education has remained a constant throughout her career; since 2003, she has served as both a practical and theory examiner for ABDO.

In addition to her work with ABDO, Deborah has contributed significantly to professional education as director of training for the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers Education Trust. Her influence has helped shape training standards and support the next generation of optical professionals.

Following her relocation to the south west of England in 2014, Deborah became self-employed, working as a locum DO and examiner. During this period, she also worked with Zeiss Meditec delivering clinical training on advanced ophthalmology equipment, including surgical microscopes.

Since 2018, Deborah has served as clinical governance and performance lead for Primary Eyecare Devon.

Commenting on her appointment, Deborah said: “I am honoured to have been elected to the ABDO Board, and especially to serve as vice president during our centenary year. I look forward to working with Brenda Rennie and the ABDO team and to engaging with members during our 100 year anniversary visits.

“As a proud dispensing optician, I am privileged to represent our profession in this role. I am committed to raising awareness of the expertise we bring and to supporting greater recognition and development opportunities for our members.”