Eye Focus August 2017 | Page 7

"...TO BE TRUSTED, YOU NEED TO BE HONEST AND CONSISTENT. EVERYONE KNOWS AND ADMIRES THE NIKON STORY – WE OFFER A PRESTIGIOUS HISTORY OF INNOVATION, QUALITY AND INTEGRITY..." Q. Thanks for speaking with us about your new role. Can you begin by telling us a bit about yourself? A. I have 20 years of experience in marketing, sales and business development with a consistent track record of success generating top and bottom line growth. I started at Nikon Optical Canada in 2013, as VP marketing and business development, with a mandate to lead the organization’s commercial activities. Coming from the pharmaceutical industry, I’ve long been committed to innovations that improve people’s lives. So, it felt like a natural progression when I joined Nikon, an organization that has innovation and visual health in its very DNA. I’ve since developed a true passion for the brand and the world of optics, which is why I’m honoured to lead Nikon Optical Canada as we continue to strengthen the market in Canada. Q. Can you please give us a sense of what your new role will entail and why you are excited to take on this opportunity? A. My role is driven by Nikon’s vision to create value for Canadian patients and eye care professionals. This means delivering on quality products, innovation, a premium cus- tomer experience and personalized service; all a reflection of the powerful brand promise that is Nikon. 2017 marks Nikon’s 100th anniversary. It is particularly exciting to be part of the organization for such a big milestone. While we celebrate this milestone as an organization, on a personal level, I also celebrate being the first woman to lead Nikon. I plan to use this opportunity to encourage more women, within my organization and across the industry, to pursue leadership roles. Q. What can we expect from Nikon is in the short-term? A. From a product perspective, expect innovations that redefine vision and respond to very real patient needs. Our latest innovation is SeeCoat Bright. The only anti- reflective coating that delivers brighter, more vivid colour perception in dim light and improves contrast for wearers who experience reduced light transmission; all while continuing to provide the benefits expected of a premium Nikon coating - anti-static, oleophobic, scratch resistance, anti-glare and full UV protection. From a business perspective, we will create value for our partners through new technologies, training, marketing, and overall support. Expect programs that help customers capitalize on growth opportunities, including premium coatings, Sun Rx, Transitions, multiple pair programs, and more. Q. What are some of your goals as head of Nikon Optical Canada? A. As a country, we have a lot to be proud of; the Canadian optical market is very healthy, very premium and full of opportunities. We strive to further fortify the market during times of change by staying true to Nikon’s positioning and value proposition; a business model that relies on quality products distributed by quality professionals. We aim to provide the confidence, support and tools for our customers to successfully develop their business and offer the best possible patient care. Q. Why do you believe so many Canadians trust Nikon Optical Canada? A. It sounds obvious, but to be trusted, you need to be honest and consistent. Everyone knows and admires the Nikon story – we offer a prestigious history of innovation, qual- ity and integrity. We have always been and will continue to be true to our premium brand experience. Over the years we have built relationships with outstanding partners and collaborators from across the optical world, forging inno- vations that advance our industry. We listen to and act on our customers’ needs. One thing above all else, this trust is brought to life through the actions of an amazing team of people, all of whom are passionate and dedicated to the success of our customers. EYE FOCUS | August Digital 2017 7