On the ground at the AOP

An AOP explainer on... 2026 Council nominations

Ella Latu, governance officer at the AOP, discusses the role of Council and the roles up for appointment this year

2 min read

Councillors are seated around a table in the AOP offices. Dr Peter Hampson is reading a mind map they have produced and members are discussins the information with him

AOP

Ella Latu

10 March 2026

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The AOP Council is currently made up of 33 Councillors, including 13 appointed Councillors who represent specific membership groups such as locum and hospital optometrists, alongside 20 elected Councillors representing geographical regions. Across both appointed and elected roles, seven Councillors represent the devolved nations.

Council meets three times a year and plays a vital role in shaping the direction of the AOP policy and services. It provides a space for Councillors to bring member feedback, debate key issues, and is a platform through which members can actively influence decision making.

Councillor insight and feedback will continue to be instrumental in shaping AOP consultation responses, informing policy positions, and ensuring we remain closely aligned with the needs and priorities of its members throughout 2026.

There are nine roles up for appointment in June this year. These are:

Optometrist practising in Scotland
Optometrist practising in Wales
Director of an independent practice
Director of multiple practices
Hospital-based optometrist
Locum optometrist
Early career optometrist
Employee of multiple practices
Employee of independent practices.

Becoming a Councillor offers members the chance to advocate for the profession, drive progress and help shape the future of optometry. Current and past Councillors often describe the role as adding a new dimension to their career, offering opportunities to develop skills, broaden perspectives, and contribute meaningfully.

We don’t ask for prior Council or leadership experience. What matters most is enthusiasm, a willingness to contribute ideas, and an ability to engage constructively with peers and the wider membership.

Members can nominate themselves via the online nomination form on the AOP website. Nominations open on 20 March 2026 and close on 10 April 2026.

Following the close of nominations, the Appointments Committee will review applications, and outcomes will be announced shortly after. The newly appointed Councillors will be formally welcomed at the AOP AGM in June.

About the author

Ella Latu

Governance officer

Ella Latu joined the AOP’s policy team as Governance Officer in December 2024. She is responsible for governance matters including the byelaws, Committees and Council, and supports the wider policy team on a range of policy projects.