AAO launches search for new CEO; appoints interim CEO

Jones

The American Academy of Optometry (AAO) announced Thursday that it has formed a search committee to identify candidates for a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

In the interim, Richard Jones— AAO’s current chief financial officer (CFO) and deputy CEO—will serve as the organization’s CEO. As part of AAO’s management team for nearly 10 years, Jones has over 20 years of nonprofit financial experience, according to an AAO news release.

The search committee is led by Barbara Caffery, OD, PhD, FAAO, (immediate past AAO president); and includes Susan Cotter, OD, MS, FAAO; Stacey Coulter, OD, MS, FAAO; Joseph Shovlin, OD, FAAO; Jennifer Coyle, OD, MS, FAAO; and Andrew Mick, OD, FAAO.

AAO President Timothy McMahon, OD, FAAO, said it is critical the committee brings in a highly qualified individual with vision and the experience this role requires

“They must be able to work in collaboration with the Board and staff to provide the quality programming, continuing education, leadership development, and membership services our Fellows expect,” McMahon stated, in the release.

The committee has issued a request for proposal (RFP) from qualified search firms.