Press release: ABDO to run pre-Board elections webinars

The Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) is inviting its members to attend one of two webinars in preparation for its forthcoming Board elections. 

Taking place from 7.30–8.30pm on Monday 29 April and Thursday 23 May, the webinars will provide insight into what being a member of the ABDO Board involves – from the time commitment to supporting the delivery of the Association’s objectives.

ABDO is committed to being fair and inclusive and promoting equality of opportunity. We want to ensure that the Board is representative of the Association’s membership and so particularly encourage members who are currently underrepresented to stand for election. This includes people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled people and LGBTQ+ people.

The webinars will be chaired by ABDO CEO, Alistair Bridge, and enable participants to hear directly from current Board members.

Nominations for the ABDO Board elections will open on 1 May 2024 and close on 14 June 2024. There are five vacancies – open to all qualified ABDO members – and the results will be announced on 3 September 2024.

ABDO President, Daryl Newsome, commented: “Board members play a key role in shaping ABDO’s strategy and overseeing the Association’s work. These webinars will help members find out more about what is involved by hearing from current Board members and asking them questions. Members might want to learn about the kind of issues that the Board discusses – or find out about how Board members combine the role with family and work commitments. This is a great chance to learn more about these exciting roles.”

Bookings can be made via the ABDO events page.

 

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Notes to Editors

  1. Media enquiries to Carol Smith csmith@abdo.org.uk
  2. Hi-res image available to download here.
  3. The Association is governed by a Board of directors, which consists of up to nine qualified members of the Association elected by members’ ballot. The immediate past president of the Association also attends Board meetings as a non-voting adviser. The Board shapes the strategic direction of the Association and oversees the work of the Association’s executive team headed by the CEO, Alistair Bridge.
  4. Ballot papers will be dispatched on 12 July, with voting closing on 27 August. The election results will be announced on 3 September 2024. Successful candidates will take their seats and officially join the Board on 7 November 2024. Their period of office will be for three years. There is an opportunity to stand for re-election for a further three-year period.
  5. The Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) is the professional body for dispensing opticians – working for dispensing opticians and advancing the profession in the UK and worldwide.
  6. Registered address Unit 2 Court Lodge Offices, Godmersham Park, Canterbury, CT4 7DT.