Simon Poole
Newcastle under Lyme,Staffordshire
Summary
Detail-oriented Optical Professional experienced in advanced lens and spectacle fitting, showcasing extensive product knowledge. Developed training sessions and facilitated learning as an ABDO Distance Learning Tutor, contributing to educational programmes in spectacle dispensing and ophthalmic dispensing. Committed to enhancing patient vision and comfort through precise eye examinations and tailored lens solutions, while actively supporting community training initiatives.
Overview
41
41
years of professional experience
6
6
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work history
Contact Lens Optician
Specsavers
Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire
2004.10 - 2024.09
- Collaborated with healthcare professionals to deliver tailored patient care solutions, ensuring optimal eye health.
- Ensured accuracy in managing optical prescriptions for corrective lenses.
- Meticulously updated patient records post-consultation to maintain accurate information.
- Assessed suitability for contact lenses through detailed ocular health examinations, facilitating informed patient decisions.
- Fitted all types of lenses including Soft Torics, Soft Multifocals, and Myopic controlled lenses.
- Provided multifocal and keratoconic lens fitting services.
- Collaborated with other healthcare professionals to provide holistic patient care solutions.
- Managed optical prescriptions, ensuring accuracy in dispensing appropriate corrective lenses.
- Updated patient records meticulously after every consultation, ensuring information remained accurate and up-to-date.
- Assessed suitability for various types of contact lenses based on ocular health examination results.
- Offered troubleshooting solutions for common issues related to wearing contact lenses such as dryness or discomfort.
- Assisted in the selection of suitable contact lenses by considering patient lifestyle factors and visual needs.
- Provided expert advice on contact lens care, handling and usage for improved visual health.
- Participated in continuous professional development activities to stay abreast of industry developments and advancements in eye care technology.
- Enhanced patient experience by delivering personalised service and promptly addressing individual concerns, leading to improved satisfaction.
Practice manager/Contact Lens Optician
Dollond and Aitdchison
Stafford, Staffordshire
2000.10 - 2004.10
- Led a team of 5 staff members.
- Coordinated daily operations of the practice and the glazing lab.
- Conducted weekly training sessions for staff and facilitated their personal development.
- Dispensed high quality frames and lenses including Zeiss, Hoya, Rodenstock and Essilor products.
- Also did repairs, collections and adjustments.
- As well as seeing Contact lens patients for aftercare and assessments whilst training under supervision.
Area Manager
Peter Bainbridge Opticians
Harborne, Birmingham
1999.02 - 2000.10
- Led a small group of 6 practices, collaborating with the owner to improve sales, provide KPIs, and develop staff.
- Covered for dispensing opticians at various practices to ensure continuity of service.
Practice Manager
Duncan and Todd
Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire
1993.08 - 1999.01
- Oversaw the smooth running of practice and managed staff training and development.
- Managed a small practice in Ellon, Aberdeenshire responsible for 2 staff plus an Optometrist.
- Provided coverage for other practices in the group during staff absences.
Practice Manager
Vision Express
Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire
1991.08 - 1994.06
- Managed a team of over 20 full-time and part-time staff, overseeing operations in an on-site manufacturing lab to provide a 1-hour service.
- Recruited, trained, and disciplined staff while maintaining excellent customer service and managing a 6-member lab team.
- Conducted quality checks and remakes, primarily focusing on collections rather than dispensing.
Practice Manager/Trainee DO
Miller and Santhouse
Nantwich, Cheshire
1984.03 - 1991.04
- Managed daily operations of the practice to maintain efficiency.
- Led a team of 4 and an optometrist.
- In the 7 years we never did a refund for dissatisfaction with spectacles.
- Handled dispensing, repairs, collections, and adjustments of eyewear.
Education
Diploma in Optical Dispensing - Optics
Bradford and Ilkely Community College
Bradford 1983.09 - 1986.05
Certificate in Contact Lens Practice - Contact Lens Practice
ABDO College
Godmersham, Kent 2002.09 - 2006.06
Skills
- Advanced lens fitting
- Spectacle fitting
- Product knowledge
- Sales insight
- Excellent at developing training sessions
- Excellent team player
- Excellent interpersonal skills
Affiliations
- Classic Car, own a 30 year old Volvo. Started the Cheshire Area of the Volvo Owners Club from nothing in 2012 and we now have over 100 members.
- Port Vale Season Ticket holder and former shareholder
- Personal Development and understanding the mind, fascinating.
- A member of Institue of Advanced Motorists currently training to be a National Observer
Certification
Passed Advanced Driving Test with a First (Highest mark possible)
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Contact Lens Optician
Specsavers
2004.10 - 2024.09
Certificate in Contact Lens Practice - Contact Lens Practice
ABDO College
2002.09 - 2006.06
Practice manager/Contact Lens Optician
Dollond and Aitdchison
2000.10 - 2004.10
Area Manager
Peter Bainbridge Opticians
1999.02 - 2000.10
Practice Manager
Duncan and Todd
1993.08 - 1999.01
Practice Manager
Vision Express
1991.08 - 1994.06
Practice Manager/Trainee DO
Miller and Santhouse
1984.03 - 1991.04
Diploma in Optical Dispensing - Optics
Bradford and Ilkely Community College
1983.09 - 1986.05