The Vision Council concluded its annual executive summit at the Trump International Beach Resort in Miami, Florida, drawing more than 270 high-level executives from the optical industry. During the event, held Jan. 22-24, The Vision Council officially inducted its 2014 officers and board of directors. As a first time attendee, Martine Breton, president of Breton Communications stated that “The event was a very positive experience and offered great opportunities to meet and share with many of the notable leaders of this industry.”
“As the optical industry continues to grow and evolve, it is encouraging to see leaders from all areas of the industry come together to learn and discuss cutting-edge strategies and trends in the market,” said Ed Greene, CEO of The Vision Council. “The Executive Summit continues to be the premiere forum for industry leaders to obtain the latest content that they can immediately use to grow and adapt their business.”
The 2014 program delivered a dynamic combination of executive-level networking, leadership development, economic trend updates, hot-topic panel discussions, and business strategies. Keynote addresses focused on the latest issues affecting our industry and leadership strategies to not only navigate, but innovate in the changing industry landscape. Speakers included Ambassador Ron Kirk, former US Trade Representative and Mayor of Dallas, Fred Dust, partner at IDEO, and Brian Beaulieu, market trend analyst at the Institute for Trend Research.
During the summit’s annual membership meeting portion, it was announced that Raanan Naftalovich of Shamir Insight will serve a second one-year term as chairman of the board. The remaining officers were also inducted for a second term, including Vice Chairman Marty Bassett of Walman Optical, Secretary/Treasurer Dick Russo of Sàfilo, and Jamie Shyer of Zyloware Eyewear as immediate past chairman.
Also elected were directors-at-large Joe Donahoe of Carl Zeiss Vision (Lens Division), Michael Suliteanu of WESCAN/WestGroupe (Eyewear and Accessories Division), and Steve Tulba of Mondottica (Eyewear and Accessories Division).
Serving as the global voice for vision care products and services, The Vision Council represents the manufacturers and suppliers of the optical industry through education, advocacy and consumer outreach. By sharing the latest in eyewear trends, advances in technology and advice from eyewear experts, The Vision Council serves as a resource to the public looking to learn more about options in eyeglasses and sunglasses. The 2015 executive summit will be held January 21-23 at the PGA National Resort and Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
