The Optical Distributors and Manufacturers Association (ODMA) has welcomed three new directors to its board after members voted in fresh leadership at the organisation’s annual general meeting.
Ms Shiva Taghvaei (Safilo), Mr Jim Kareh (Matrix Eyewear) and Mr Michael Nasser (Opticare) have been elected to the nine-person board for the 2025–2027 term. Their appointments bring renewed industry insight to the association, which reported more than 80 per cent member participation in the election.
The trio will work alongside six returning directors: Mr Craig Chick (HOYA), Mr Brad Saffin (Marchon Eyewear), Ms Gail Giordani (ZEISS Vision Care), Mr Mark Altman (Device Technologies Australia), Ms Angelina Chee (De Rigo Vision Australia) and Ms Michelle North (CooperVision).
ODMA also acknowledged the service of several long-standing directors who departed during the 2024–2025 period. Former board chair Mr Robert Sparkes and fellow director Mr Lionel Minter have stepped down, while Ms Jacque Katsieris has also concluded her tenure. The association thanked all outgoing directors for their contribution to Australia’s optical distribution and manufacturing sector.
The latest board changes continue a period of evolution for ODMA, which has seen several shifts in membership since 2022, when Giordani and Katsieris joined the board following a resignation and the passing of director Mr Richard Grills.
