When people decide to work at Specsavers, they’re joining a company with a purpose to change lives through better sight and hearing – hence why more Australians and New Zealanders choose the optometry provider over any other.
As one of the largest employers in the ANZ optometry sector, Insight sits down with an employee each month to hear about their growth trajectory within the company.
SPECSAVERS STATS
Name: Anas Mujtaba
Current position: Graduate optometrist
Location: Specsavers Nowra
Years within the business: 1 year 8 months
Why did you pursue an optometry career, and how did you enter the profession?
I was drawn to optometry because it combines real-world problem-solving with meaningful community care. My interest began early, when a close family member was diagnosed with Stargardt’s disease. That experience led my family to participate in genetic testing and clinical trials, and it opened my eyes to the vital role optometrists play. It left a lasting impression and inspired me to pursue the field. I went on to study optometry at UNSW, where clinical placements gave me hands-on experience and confirmed how
rewarding patient care can be.
How did you come to work at Specsavers, and what attracted you to the business?
My first experience with Specsavers was during a final-year placement, at the very store where I now work as a graduate optometrist. What stood out immediately were the values at the heart of the business: improving access and changing lives through better vision. As the child of first-generation immigrants, I’ve seen how crucial it is to have equal access to healthcare. Specsavers’ mission deeply resonated with me. During my placement, I saw the breadth of care offered. It was clear this was the right environment to grow as a clinician and make a meaningful impact.
What was your first role within the business, and what did it entail?
I started as a graduate optometrist, and the program has given me a strong foundation to build my clinical experience. It’s been a great balance of independence and structured support. I’ve focused on learning as much as I can and becoming a better clinician every day. At Nowra, I felt confident and supported thanks to the guidance of my mentors.
Since then, what growth opportunities have presented themselves?
I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had early in my career. Through the graduate program, I’ve attended clinical workshops and professional development events. I’ve led projects like the IPL pilot rollout in the Shoalhaven region, represented my peers as a NSW/ACT graduate advisor, and served as a Specsavers ambassador at university and community events.
Can you outline your top career highlights since joining Specsavers?
Winning the Graduate Optometry Excellence Award for ANZ at the Specsavers Clinical Conference was a standout. Leading the IPL pilot project and winning the Year 2 Project for NSW/ACT was another. And representing my peers as the NSW/ACT graduate advisor has been incredibly rewarding. Growing from a new graduate into a confident clinician with leadership aspirations and mentoring students on placement has been a full-circle moment.
Tell us about something you’ve achieved in your time with Specsavers that you feel particularly proud of?
Winning both the Graduate Optometry Excellence Award and the Year 2 Graduate Project Award. They reflect not just my personal growth, but the incredible support I’ve had from my team and mentors.
What excites you most about turning up for work each day?
Working in a regional location means we’re often the first point of contact for complex cases, and I love the variety – no two days are the same. Every patient interaction is a chance to make a real difference. I’m also lucky to work with a passionate, driven team that inspires me to grow as a clinician and as a person.
How many years have you been with Specsavers?
I’m nearing the end of my graduate program, with 20 months of experience at Specsavers. I’m excited for what’s next and ready to take on new challenges!
