Lay member position available on GOC Council

We are seeking to appoint one lay (non-registrant) member to our Council with experience as a finance professional.  

The Council governs the GOC and sets its strategic direction. This vacancy comes at a particularly exciting time as we embark on our new five-year strategic plan to 2030. As a Council member, you will become one of the GOC's trustees, sharing equal responsibility for all aspects of the Council's work and expected to contribute to all strategic decisions. 

The successful candidate will contribute to Council by exercising oversight, ensuring effective corporate governance and making high-level policy decisions. They will be able to operate strategically and impartially; listen, communicate, and influence effectively; demonstrate judgment; and inspire confidence and support amongst the GOC’s stakeholders.  

We are keen that Council’s membership reflects the communities it serves as a regulator, so we are seeking a lay member who will add value to and diversify the perspective of the Council. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are particularly encouraged to apply, as the GOC believes that decision-making is better when there is an inclusivity of thought and lived experience. 

An annual fee of £13,962 is paid monthly to Council members in line with our member fees policy and member fee schedule.   

This role is part time with a commitment of approximately two to three days per month, including time spent preparing for meetings. Meetings will usually take place via MS Teams but may, on occasion, be held at the GOC offices at floor 29, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AA or other suitable venues. There are occasional online catch-up meetings - these are currently scheduled on a Tuesday evening every 6-8 weeks, from 5.30pm – 6.30pm. 

Council members joining us at this time will play a critical role in ensuring our strategy is delivered, and that we pursue our vision of safe and effective eye care for all. 

For more information about the role and the recruitment process, and to apply, view the:  

• Lay Council member recruitment: Candidate Information Pack
• Lay Council member recruitment: Application Form

The deadline for applications is 11:59 pm on Sunday 10 August 2025.  

Should interested candidates have any questions about the role, please email [email protected] quoting reference GOC04/25 on all correspondence.