The Optical Distributors & Manufacturers Association (ODMA) has announced that Chief Executive Finola Carey will leave the organisation at the end of April to take up semi-retirement.

Ms Carey has served as Chief Executive of ODMA since 2010 and has spent a collective 27 years in the organisation, having previously served as Executive Director and Federal Secretary.

Chairman of ODMA Robert Sparkes paid tribute to Carey’s substantial contribution to the industry and the Association’s development.

“Finola has been an inspirational leader of ODMA over a long period, and we wish her well for the future,” Mr Sparkes said.

“She has helped the industry evolve positively, led our advocacy efforts across a range of issues and navigated the organisation through the pandemic when many associations faltered.

“Finola is a creative thinker in strategy and planning– her knowledge of effective Governance has time and again ensured proven outcomes for ODMA.

“She was one of the architects of the joint venture agreement between ODMA and Optometry Victoria/South Australia, out of which O=MEGA (the premier optical event in the Southern hemisphere) was born and can be credited with a major role in securing the World Congress of Optometry for Melbourne in 2023.

“One of the legacies Finola leaves is the industry’s focus on differentiation of independent optics. While there is still work to do, this has begun a real change that is having a deep impact.

“Finola leaves ODMA in a very strong position, with record support and a positive balance sheet,” he said.

Ms Carey said the time was right to think about retirement and pursue fresh challenges.

“It has been a true privilege to lead this organisation, but the time is right for me to wind down and pursue other opportunities,” Ms Carey said.

“I’m incredibly proud of the work of ODMA and the powerful and positive impact we have had on the industry and the community.

“It has been immensely rewarding to build relationships that help shape the optical landscape and grow the independent market.”

“My heartfelt thanks to our Board and staff present and past, as well as a great many members from whom I have learnt so much over the years,” she said.

Ms Carey will finish at the end of April. ODMA’s succession planning for a new CEO is well under way.