Council Associate applications are open

Following the success of the launch of Council Associates in 2021, we are looking to appoint two new Associates to join the GOC. The 2023 appointees will be fully-qualified registrants, at least one of whom is a dispensing optician, and will join current Council Associates Rukaiya Anwar and Harry Singh Bhakar.  

Council Associates will attend all Council meetings, where they are encouraged to get involved in the debate and share their valuable perspectives. They will also gain further experience of governance through participation in our Audit, Risk, and Finance Committee. Associates will be supported throughout their year-long term by development workshops, post-meeting check-ins with their dedicated mentor, and ongoing assistance from our Governance Team. 

The Associate role was created to bring new perspectives to Council meetings, and to give board/panel experience, development, and training to early career optical professionals. We are committed to diversifying the membership of our panels and committees to bring them in line with our registrant base.  

Rukaiya Anwar, Council Associate, said: “The role has supported me in conversing with many other lay and registered professionals within the Council, granting insight into alternative and broad ways of thinking. As a Council Associate, I am proud to say that I sit within an organisation that promotes a positive environment where continuous learning and growth is encouraged. I would strongly encourage you to apply. There is nothing more exciting than being part of the change that is happening right in front of our eyes (pun intended!)." 

Applications are now open. If you are interested in becoming a Council Associate, the Candidate Pack provides more information on the role and how to apply. The deadline for applications is Sunday 19 February 2023. 

We particularly welcome applications from those who identify as disabled or are from ethnic minority backgrounds, as these groups are currently under-represented within our Council and committees. 

Please note that, unfortunately, for this role we cannot accept applications from students.  

If you have any questions, feel free to contact appointment@optical.org and quote GOC04/22 in all correspondence.