Mike Candy is an experienced sales and business development professional with more than 25 years of success in the optical and ophthalmic equipment industry. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for combining technical expertise, strong customer relationships, and commercial acumen to deliver sustainable business growth and exceptional customer experiences. As Instruments Sales Manager for the Southwest region at EssilorLuxottica, Mike manages the complete sales process for advanced ophthalmic instruments, from identifying opportunities and delivering product demonstrations through to installation, training, and ongoing customer support. He works closely with eye care professionals and practice owners, helping them adopt innovative technologies that enhance clinical outcomes and business performance. His ability to understand customer needs and translate technical solutions into tangible benefits has contributed to consistent sales growth and high levels of customer satisfaction. Prior to moving into sales, Mike spent 16 years as a Senior Instruments Engineer, responsible for servicing and maintaining ophthalmic equipment across the Southwest. This technical foundation gives him a unique perspective and enables him to provide customers with practical, informed advice throughout the sales journey. Mike’s career with EssilorLuxottica began in production and operational leadership roles, where he successfully managed large teams, delivered efficiency improvements, and maintained rigorous quality standards.

Darren Taylor BSc. (Hons.) MCOptom is an Optometrist with over 25 years’ experience in the Industry. Darren has worked in various sectors in the optical Industry, from Business owner of a high street multiple practice, to practising in the Independent and Domiciliary sectors. Darren has also performed Professional Services roles for a number of well-established companies in the sector, with particular emphasis on coaching and Professional training and education, including authoring and hosting educational events and facilitating at various CET meetings on a wide range of optometric subjects. More recently, Darren joined Essilor in April 2021 as ‘Optometry Sales & Product Training Manager’. His main areas of focus currently are advanced refraction techniques, Myopia management, Dry Eye disease, OCT interpretation, and how to implement new equipment and techniques into practice.