mi profession

WRITER Brendan Philp

Two decades into his career, Brendan Philp sees optometry as more of a calling, than a profession.

When I think back on my career, I feel a deep sense of gratitude – for the people I’ve met, the mentors who have guided me, and the experiences that have shaped both my professional and personal life.

From my early days as an optometrist in a regional practice to supporting a large number of optometrists across three states, my career has been enriched by incredible mentors, diverse experiences, and the unwavering support of a company that truly invests in its people.

My career in optometry began at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), where I graduated with honours in 1997. From the outset, I was drawn to the human aspect of eye care and the opportunity to improve people’s quality of life by helping them see the world more clearly. This core value has remained the driving force throughout my career.

In 1998, I accepted my graduate role with OPSM in Cairns. I was guided by Richard Ferguson, a mentor who left an indelible mark on my professional life. He not only nurtured my passion for general optometry but also sparked my interest in specialty contact lens fitting. His guidance gave me a strong clinical foundation and instilled in me the importance of mentorship, something that has stayed with me ever since.

WANDERLUST

Like many young Australians, the travel bug bit me, and in 2001, I set off overseas. I spent a year teaching English in Japan and then just over a year working with the optical chain Dollond and Aitchison in London. These experiences really did broaden my horizons both personally and professionally, allowing me to appreciate different cultures as well as healthcare systems.

Returning to Australia, I resumed my career with Laubman and Pank in Canberra. My move back to my hometown of Brisbane in 2006, as Managing Optometrist at OPSM Carindale, was another turning point. Helping to manage a busy practice gave me insight into the complexities of balancing clinical excellence with team leadership and operational outcomes.

In 2012, I once again said ‘yes’ to embracing a new challenge, moving to Melbourne to become the Area Eyecare Manager (AEM) for OPSM Victoria South. I look back fondly at my time in Melbourne (apart from the perennial heartache of being a Carlton supporter for many years); the AEM role was incredibly rewarding, as it allowed me to support a wider network of optometrists across multiple locations. I discovered how much I enjoyed leading others, helping them grow, and finding ways to deliver exceptional care at scale. It was during this time, that coaching and mentoring others started to become a true passion.

A CHANGED PERSPECTIVE

Equally important has been keeping sight of what truly matters – family. The birth of our son in 2013 shifted my perspective again, reminding me that careers and family life must be woven together. And so, we returned to Brisbane to be closer to our support network.

I was fortunate to step into the role of Professional Services Manager, now expanded to support Queensland, Northern New South Wales, and the Northern Territory.

In this role, I have the privilege of influencing patient outcomes across more than 100 stores. Whether it’s ensuring we have the right optometrist in the right store, equipping our practices with the latest diagnostic tools, or providing ongoing professional development, I see every aspect of my work as a means to deliver better vision care to our communities.

Working with EssilorLuxottica has been an extraordinary experience. From day one, I’ve received tremendous support. The company fosters an environment that champions growth, offering career progression, mentorship, and even global opportunities. I particularly enjoy supporting new graduates as they embark on their journey. Helping them find their feet and watching them grow into confident, capable clinicians is one of the most rewarding aspects of what I do.

Beyond the clinical and commercial aspects, I am proud to work for an organisation that is deeply committed to sustainability and social responsibility. The OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation is transforming global vision care, partnering with organisations like the World Health Organization to bring eye exams and glasses to under-served populations around the world as well as remote Australian communities. Through the efforts of OneSight, millions now enjoy better vision, a higher quality of life, and improved opportunities for the future.

Looking back, I feel privileged to have had a career built on meaningful connections, constant learning, and a shared mission to help people see more clearly. Looking forward, I’m excited to continue this journey, supporting our optometrists, advancing patient care, and shaping the future of eye health in Australia and beyond.

Brendan Philps is Professional Services Manager Qld, NT, and NSW North, Luxottica.