The former CEO of one of Scotland’s largest, independently owned optical chains, Black & Lizars, has joined Urquhart Opticians in Ayr as non-executive Chair.
Mark Ross is also currently CEO of Vets Now and brings a history of working with ambitious brands through periods of growth.
Peter Telfer, Managing Director of Urquhart Opticians, took over the Ayrshire-based company in 2015 with his business partner, Alistair Duff, and said, “Mark has been on our radar for some time; first as an informal mentor to me and to Alistair, and now by bringing his wealth of knowledge to our Board.
“Most importantly, Mark shares our values. We seek to grow through building meaningful relationships with both clients and the communities we serve. He has already been instrumental in helping us identify and develop colleagues who share that commitment.”
Urquhart Opticians celebrated its centenary in 2016 and has five established practices across Ayrshire, in Kilmarnock, Ayr, Troon, Prestwick and Kilwinning. The company employs thirty people and supplies premium frames, including Gucci, Tiffany & Co and Tom Ford.
Peter Telfer says, “Alistair and I know the Ayrshire market really well, having been friends since Mauchline Primary. We believe in offering the very best selection of frames available but never at the expense of clinical excellence. The standards we set are deliberately high, as is our commitment to working in and around the community where we live.
“We believe the people of Ayrshire deserve nothing but the best.”
Mark Ross joins the Board with immediate effect and says, “I very much respect Peter and Alistair’s commitment to constantly to grow the quality of the offering, as well as the business itself. Having known them both for some time, I am very much looking forward to being part of their journey.”
Peter Telfer and Alistair Duff took over Urquhart’s in 2015, following the retirement of the previous owners. They have been friends since primary school days and operate as Urquhart’s Managing Director and Clinical Director, respectively.
Peter is also a non-executive Director at Ayrshire Chamber of Commerce.
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