GOC appoints Dr Hema Radhakrishnan to Council

The General Optical Council (GOC) has appointed Dr Hema Radhakrishnan as a registrant member of its Council.

Radhakrishnan is an optometrist who also works as an academic and is a member of the Board of Governors and Senate at the University of Manchester.

As well as teaching optometry undergraduates, she conducts research into myopia, physiological optics, and anterior eye, for which she has won a number of awards.

Whilst at the University of Manchester Radhakrishnan has held various leadership positions, including being the associate dean for social responsibility in the faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health.

She is also a qualified management coach, and serves on editorial boards of various vision science journals.

Speaking about her appointment, Radhakrishnan said: “I am delighted to be joining the GOC Council at a significant time of change, with the new GOC strategy being developed.

“I look forward to the opportunity of bringing my skills, perspective and expertise to the Council, working with the GOC leadership to ensure optometrists and dispensing opticians receive high quality training and the patients get the best possible care.”

Dr Anne Wright CBE, GOC chair of Council, said: “I’m pleased to welcome Hema to the Council. She brings a wealth of skills and experience in the optical sector, which will be invaluable as we progress various strategic projects.

“As part of Council, she will help to ensure the GOC achieves its vision of delivering world-class regulation and excellent customer service, while continuing its vital work of protecting the public by upholding high standards in the optical professions.”

Radhakrishnan took up her role on 15 March.