Millmead CEO named new OSA chair

James Conway, the CEO of Millmead Optical Group, has been appointed chair of the Optical Suppliers Association (OSA), the UK body representing optical manufacturers and suppliers.

A longstanding OSA director, Conway was formally appointed to the chair role at the OSA Annual General Meeting in December following the retirement of Roy Stoner after a three-year tenure.

Stoner shared: “We have made great strides and are in a positive and good position to move forward.”

He highlighted the strong links of the OSA across the optical community, and commented: “The launch of Opticare Innovations last year has enormous potential and is already working on initiatives which will move the whole optical community forward to drive innovation and discussion, with the careful integration of AI.”

Conway will be supported by vice-chair Jayne Abel, CEO of Eyespace.

Commenting on his appointment, Conway said: “It is an honour to take on the role of chair of the OSA. The association plays a vital role in supporting and representing our industry, from regulatory guidance to sustainability initiatives. I look forward to working with members and partner organisations to continue strengthening the voice of the optical supply sector.”

Paying tribute to the former chair, he said: “Roy is an absolute legend and has been fantastic for the OSA. We now have 61 member companies across the spectrum of optical supply. The broader OSA Board has hundreds of years of combined optical experience, plus the benefit of past OSA Board members to call upon – it is an unrivalled resource for any business.”

Conway continued: “I have been in the optical business for 26 years and am so looking forward to this role and to continue my journey in optics, supporting this around me.”

The AGM provided members with a series of updates including market insights, a white paper on Standardisation and Validation of Remote Technologies, and the Green Charter’s five levels of accreditation.

Christmas donations were made to England and Wales Blind Golf and to Vision Care (formerly known as Vision Care for Homeless People).