The secret of a successful career

Pictured left to right – Raj Gohil with fellow practice directors Glyn Gohil, Andrew Wells and Uan Gohil

Focusing “on the happiness of both the team and our patients” is the secret of a successful career in optics, says a contact lens optician (CLO) who is retiring as a Specsavers store director. 

Raj Gohil is stepping down from running the Derby practice after more than four decades in the profession. He will stay on for three days a week, and continue to support two colleagues studying to follow in his footsteps as CLOs. 

When Raj opened the practice 35 years ago there were just five employees. Today, a team of 100 work across optics and audiology. There are 10 optical consulting rooms, five dedicated audiology rooms and four contact lens areas.

“‘The team, our patients and the local community make working here so special, and I’ve been extremely lucky to be surrounded by such wonderful people,” said Raj. “I’m looking forward to seeing what the future brings but for the time being I am savouring every moment here.”

Raj’s sons, Uan and Glyn, are also directors at the practice, which runs four sites around Derby.

Andrew Wells, an optometrist and fellow director at Derby, said: “There’s no doubt Raj will leave a lasting legacy here but for the time being I will enjoy working alongside him as he eases into the prospect of retirement.

“His professionalism and his caring nature not only helped nurture and build a dedicated and committed team, but also built a wonderful loyal patient following that continues to grow.”