Behind the Lens: Where Optometry Meets Success

In the world of optometry, certainly at Optical Express, every day brings new challenges, triumphs, and opportunities to make a real difference in people's lives.

Among our ranks, you'll find a vibrant spectrum of professionals, from eager newcomers exploring new horizons to seasoned veterans who've been integral since our inception. What binds them all together is a shared commitment to enhancing lives with clear vision.

For those embarking on their career journey, Optical Express offers the resources to cultivate skills, expand knowledge and forge lasting connections within the eye care industry. You will be supported by mentorship, training, and opportunities for personal and professional growth for the duration of your career with us.

But don’t just take our word for it, read our Optometrist’s own:

Tasnia, Optometrist, Bristol Clinic

• How long have you been with Optical Express?

I started in March this year, so just over a month!

• What would you say has been the most rewarding aspect of working for Optical Express so far?

Being able to provide a great experience to patients. The refractive and cataract surgery training has been incredibly efficient so far, there have been a few different trainers, who have all been excellent at what they do. 

• If you could describe the culture in one word, what would it be? 

Very friendly. And approachable! 

• Where do you see yourself in another year?

In the next year, I would love to work towards working completely independently and build up my confidence. Obviously right now, I’m focussed on the training process, but in the next few years, I would love to explore the option of being part of the optometry surgery support team and gaining my Independent Prescribing qualification, which Optical Express fund for their optometrists.

Jack, Optometrist, Bristol Clinic

• How long have you been with Optical Express?

I have been here for over 3 years, I joined Optical Express in 2021.

• What would you say has been the most rewarding aspect of working for Optical Express?

It’s definitely the patient outcomes, you’re genuinely changing people’s everyday lives. You live real world examples of changing the lives of your patients every day!

• If you could describe the culture in one word, what would it be?

In one word? Oh that’s difficult. It’s challenging, but in really positive ways. Rewarding! I find myself striving to be the best I can be for my patients. 

• Where do you see yourself in another 3 years?

I would like to have a few extra qualifications under my belt, so probably my Independent Prescribing qualification and YAG related training too, I love the clinical side of Optometry. I want to make the Bristol clinic one of, if not the best performing clinic in the company. We also have a few new team members who have joined the practice recently, I’m really excited to support them as they develop and see the progress they make and how their confidence grows.

Akramul, Optometrist, Lakeside Thurrock Clinic.

• How long have you been with Optical Express?

8 years, I’ve been here from pre-reg. I was funded by Optical Express to come to Glasgow and get my Independent Prescribing qualification from Glasgow Caledonian University.

• What would you say has been the most rewarding aspect of working for Optical Express?

Seeing patient’s faces after surgery and the impact we make on their lives. It’s inspiring!

• If you describe the culture in one word, what would it be?

Clinical development – there are lots of opportunities. The clinical support provided is phenomenal.

• Where do you see yourself in another 8 years?

I want to have a few more extra qualifications. I’m working closely with the NHS eye care business, ACES. One of their service focusses is in glaucoma, so I would love to pursue a professional certificate in glaucoma and medical retina as well.

Claire, Optometry Development Manager, Glasgow Clinic

• How long have you been with Optical Express?

17 years, I actually started on the shop floor while I was at university and then eventually joined the Optometry team in my pre-reg year.

• What would you say has been the most rewarding aspect of working for Optical Express?

I do a surgery support role, so I get to see the patients through the whole process, from initial consultation to the day of surgery, and beyond. A lot of our patients have cataracts which means when they come to us they can’t see and the next day when I see them their lives have completely changed. It’s really heart-warming to see the overnight difference!

• If you describe the culture in one word, what would it be?

Positive. Inspired. Fulfilling. I have too many!

• Where do you see yourself in another 17 years?

I’m very interested in the back of the eye, the retina, so I would absolutely love to gain my certificate in glaucoma and medical retina. I don’t know exactly what the years will bring, but I’m excited about all of the potential they have.

Jameel, Optometrist, Dartford Clinic

• How long have you been with Optical Express?

I’ve been with Optical Express for 20 years now.

• What would you say has been the most rewarding aspect of working for Optical Express?

100%. It’s the people and the way the company has evolved. I’ve seen the company from its infancy and every year the standards get higher and higher.

• If you describe the culture in one or two words, what would it be?

Great people. Good people, dedicated to the industry and their patients.

• Where do you see yourself in another 20 years?

Oh I’m going to do this for as long as my mind and body will let me. Until they tell me ‘Jameel you have to stop!’

Through their shared commitment to exceptional patient care, our diverse community of professionals shape a culture of clinical excellence. As showcased by Tasnia, Jack, Akramul, Claire, and Jameel, the journey with Optical Express is one for the long road. Whether just beginning or celebrating decades of service, every member of our team embodies the spirit of dedication and innovation we are known for, ensuring a future where success is not just met, but exceeded, one patient at a time.