Who's Who at the IOA: Fiona Anderson

Name: Fiona Anderson

Position at the IOA: President

Other Positions held: Past President ABDO, WCSM Court Assistant, WCSM Liveryman, Fellow of EAOO, Trustee of EAOO, Member of Board of Management ECOO, Member of ECOO, ABDO Scotland Sub-regional Lead, Grampian AOC observer, Member of Optometry Scotland

How did you get into optics?

My first interest was aged 11 when I got my first specs (I’m a low astigmatic myope) then in later years I always wanted to do something vaguely medical but not at the sharp end (no blood or sick people!)

How has your career progressed?

I studied full time and then entered my pre reg with an independent group. After 25 years with them – first as practice manager, then as accessories buyer, then area manager followed by group training manager and having studied for and gained a business degree along the way, I decided to leave. I became a locum for 2 very happy years. I am now a partner in an independent practice. I also started becoming more involved with ABDO about 18 years ago – first as an examiner then in optical politics. I was elected to the Board of Directors in 2010. I have recently finished my term of office on the ABDO Board having served 10 years.

What do you bring to the IOA?

I hope enthusiasm and a ‘can do’ attitude and a level head. I am a naturally talkative ‘people’ person and I hope my network can be used to enhance the reach and profile of the IOA.

www.ythanopticans.co.uk

www.abdo.org.uk