Professional Matters Optometry & Dispensing
New members appointed to AOP Council
New members appointed to AOP Council
Nine members appointed to designated positions
The Association of Optometrists (AOP) has confirmed the appointment of nine new Councillors, representing a broad range of practice modes, professional backgrounds and career stages.
The newly appointed members will offer insight and experience to the Council as it supports and represents the full spectrum of membership.
The AOP Council is made up of 34 members, elected representatives from across the UK and designated positions that reflect the diversity of the profession. Councillors inform the AOP’s policy development, member services and strategic direction.
Adam Sampson, AOP Chief Executive, said: “I am delighted to welcome our new and re-appointed Councillors, who bring valuable experience and a strong commitment to the profession. Their insight will be essential as we continue to drive progress in optometry and ensure that our members remain at the core of our work.”
Deven Lakhani, Newly Appointed AOP Locum Optometrist Councillor, said: “I feel excited and privileged to have been selected, and grateful to have been given the opportunity to give something back to my profession and my peers. I have felt very rewarded during my 35-year career as an optometrist, and I look forward to contributing to the continued advancement of UK optometry.”
Newly appointed Council members
| Councillor | Representing |
| Erica Campbell-Walker | Optometrist practising in Scotland
|
| Kaljit Dhaliwal | Employee of independent practices |
| Kiran Dhillon | Hospital based optometrist |
| Indy Ghuman | Early career optometrist |
| Kamaljit Kalsi | Optometrist practising in Wales |
| Deven Lakhani | Locum optometrist |
| Mehul Patel | Director of multiple practices |
| Desislava Pirkova | Director of an independent practice |
| Karan Vyas | Employee of multiple practices |
Emma Spofforth, AOP Chairman, said: “We extend our thanks to all of the candidates who put themselves forward this year. Their dedication to the profession and willingness to contribute is truly commendable, and I encourage them to consider applying again in the future. The perspectives of the newly appointed Councillors will help guide our policy direction and reinforce our commitment to representing members.”
Applications were open from 20 March to 10 April 2026, with the AOP Appointments Committee deciding on the outcome for the designated posts on 22 April.
The newly appointed Councillors will take up their roles at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in June.
The appointment of the Chairman of the Board and Council will also be confirmed at the AGM.
For more information about the 2026 appointments and the role of Councillors, visit www.aop.org.uk/appointments
