Hoya announces professional services change

Hoya has announced the retirement of its long-standing technical and professional services director, Andrew Sanders, and the appointment of a new professional services manager, Sofia Fazal.

In her new role, Fazal will be involved in training, providing technical support, delivering CPD and creating educational content for eye care professionals as well as Hoya’s internal teams.

A former independent practice owner, Fazal is a previous local optical committee chair, volunteer for Vision Care for Homeless People, and a member of the AOP’s virtual policy committee.

Fazal also brings to the role experience in professional education, spectacle lens manufacture, research and development.

Hoya confirmed Andrew Sanders will be taking early retirement from his role at the end of 2024.

Sanders qualified as a dispensing optician in 1987 and worked for several large optical chains and small independent practices before taking on a role in technical and professional services.

In 2013, Sanders joined Hoya Lens UK, taking on a role that involved providing support, management, and training to professionals in the UK and mainland Europe.

Sanders was a regular lecturer and tutor at Hoya’s European facility in Budapest and is currently chair of the OSA standards panel, and past chair of the OSA lens focus group.

Martin Batho, managing director for Hoya Lens UK, commented: “Andy has made a huge contribution during his time at Hoya, earning him considerable respect and admiration from his fellow professionals both within this business and far beyond.”

“On behalf of Hoya Lens UK, I’d like to thank Andy for all his hard work, dedication and friendship over the past 11 years, and to wish him a long, healthy and happy retirement,” he said.