Birmingham Optical appoints a new chief executive

Birmingham Optical has appointed Steve Fleming as chief executive as the ophthalmic instrument and machinery company approaches its 60^th year.

As part of a company restructure, Mr Fleming joins chairman, Gary Vicary, company director, Neil Townsend, and sales director, Amanda Danson, on the main board of directors.

Mr Fleming joined Birmingham Optical in March at board level and, following a six-month study of the business, was appointed to the chief executive role in September.

Previously he has been chief executive at hearing care provider Amplifon, where he led the business through its most successful period.

He has also previously worked at Vision Express where he was business development director and retail operations director for both the joint venture and company-owned areas of the business.

Mr Fleming’s first high-level appointment is Arran Fewkes as finance director and shareholder.

Commenting on the appointment, Mr Fleming said: “Arran’s unique combination of financial acumen, coupled with his experience in commercial operations in the optical industry, will be a great asset to Birmingham Optical.”

He highlighted that Mr Fewkes was “well positioned to support the future aspirations of Birmingham Optical,” having previously held senior roles at Boots Opticians as retail director, director of franchise and head of franchise. Mr Fewkes has also held roles at Vision Express as financial controller, operations support manager and regional finance manager.