ABDO appoints new head of communications

The Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) had appointed optometrist Antonia Chitty as its new head of communications.

Ms Chitty has worked for ABDO on a freelance basis since 2009 and is now taking on the responsibilities previously held by Michael Potter, who sadly passed away in January.

Speaking about her appointment, Ms Chitty said: “It’s great to be on board full-time with ABDO. I’m looking forward to spending more time ensuring that members and stakeholders are aware of all the great work that the association does. I will also continue to oversee the organisation’s social media campaign, EyecareFAQ, reaching out to the public to raise awareness of eye care, eyewear and the role of the dispensing optician.”

Ms Chitty has previously worked for the Royal National Institute of Blind People, the British Medical Association and Which? She also runs her own PR agency and is currently working on a creative writing PhD about sight loss.

General secretary of ABDO, Anthony Garrett, said: “As both a qualified optometrist and an experienced journalist, Antonia brings a unique skill set to the association which will further improve our communication with members, the optical sector and the public.”