Welcome to People on the move – February 2026, Insight’s monthly bulletin to keep the Australian ophthalmic sector updated on new appointments and personnel changes.
If you’d like to tell the industry about a new person in your company, practice, or clinic, please send the person’s name, position, image and a short description about their role to editor Rob Mitchell for consideration at rob.mitchell@primecreative.com.au.
Jarryd Kuhnemann – Safilo
Jarryd Kuhnemann has joined Safilo as territory sales manager for Queensland and Northern Rivers NSW. With extensive experience in practice management, dispensing, and stock control, Kuhnemann brings a strong understanding of both the commercial and clinical sides of the optical industry. He will represent Safilo’s portfolio including Etro, Isabel Marant, Boss, David Beckham, Seventh Street, Under Armour, Kate Spade, Prive Revaux, and Victoria Beckham. Kuhnemann is looking forward to supporting customers and driving business growth across his territory.
Madeline Henchley – Safilo
Safilo has announced the appointment of Madeline Henchley as territory sales manager for Victoria East. Henchley joins the company with experience across the optical industry, including leading retail operations, building partnerships and delivering sales-focused solutions. In her new role, she will represent the Carrera, Carolina Herrera, Smith, Seventh Street, Under Armour, Polaroid and Boss brands across the territory. Safilo says her combined commercial and clinical understanding will help support customers and drive sustainable business growth.
Jonathan Brookes – Retina Australia
Retina Australia has announced the appointment of Jonathan Brookes as its new CEO, commencing in the role on 2 February. Brookes brings extensive senior leadership across financial services, consumer goods, insurance, and the not-for-profit sector. He has a strong track record in driving sustainable growth through revenue diversification, market insight and leveraging organisational strengths. He also has extensive experience in stakeholder engagement and collaboration with government, corporate partners and the broader community. Most recently Brookes served as director of engagement at Eating Disorders Victoria, where he led the development of the organisation’s inaugural income diversity strategy, expanded its education portfolio and launched key fundraising initiatives along with its brand ambassador program. He holds a Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Arts and is a highly regarded leader in the not-for-profit sector.
Julia Hall – Keratoconus Australia
After 25 years operating as a volunteer-only association, Keratoconus Australia has appointed Julia Hall as its first CEO, effective 9 February. Hall brings extensive experience from both the not-for-profit and corporate sectors. Most recently, she served as CEO of Retina Australia (2022-2025), generating significant impact from the organisation’s first three-year strategic plan, doubling its reach, strengthening governance and operations, expanding research, support services and advocacy, and delivering a sustained financial turnaround. In her new role, Hall will be responsible for restructuring the association’s activities, enhancing patient support and educational programs, fundraising, liaising with researchers, and developing prevention and advocacy strategies. A particular focus will be on improving the affordability and accessibility of keratoconus treatments for the most vulnerable patients.
