BCLA welcomes new chief executive

Luke Stevens-Burt

Luke Stevens-Burt will join the British Contact Lens Association (BCLA) later this month, replacing Cheryl Donnelly as chief executive.

Having started his career in the Armed Forces, Luke has a professional background in membership associations across the healthcare, information, education and public sector industries.

In an open letter to members, he wrote: “The BCLA exists within a similar ecosystem to all other membership bodies and professional associations. They face similar challenges and share experience across the professional spectrum. I intend to tap into the wide amount of knowledge from across this ecosystem to implement positive change and introduce tried and tested solutions and strategies to enhance the standing of the BCLA and build a valuable experience for all members.

“I foresee the BCLA achieving success through the brand being synonymous with career and professional development and raising the profile of the profession. It needs to be seen as a leading stakeholder by both the profession and the public. The former, through the BCLA’s exemplary commitment to high standards and guidelines for practice, and an active partner in key initiatives for the benefit of optometry. The latter, through a growing base of patients that receive the highest of care – in both practice and information – with a reduction in non-clinical dropout rates and improved ocular surface and anterior eye health.

“With the ongoing convergence of advanced technology, information systems and biology, the profession is at the cusp of truly amazing opportunities. Smart contact lenses are a leap into the 21st century and herald the real possibility of our specialism being at the forefront of a new era in eye health.”

Luke has also pledged to bolster membership support, engagement and development through member and sector-responsive design, while also bolstering the BCLA’s standing in overseas markets, specifically South East Asia.

Commenting on the departure of Cheryl Donnelly, BCLA president Jonathon Bench said: “Cheryl has been a brilliant ambassador for the BCLA who has a long-lasting legacy to be proud of. She has been a true pioneer and embraced the culture of change and innovation that lies at the heart of the Association.

“We now look forward to a new era with Luke at the helm. He is someone with huge passion and drive, and his knowledge of growing membership organisations gives us the opportunity to push the BCLA even further.”