Michael O’Kane

Michael O’Kane was presented with an Alumni of the Year Award by Glasgow Caledonian University last week.

Michael, who leads a team of more than 70 staff at Specsavers, said: “My journey began with a BSc in Optometry, where I served as class president, and continued through advanced studies including a Diploma in Therapeutic and Independent Prescribing, an MSc in Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Research, and several postgraduate courses.

“These opportunities have enabled me to support thousands of patients in primary care and lead three Specsavers practices, while fundraising for neonatal ophthalmic care and delivering eye and hearing clinics for people experiencing homelessness.”

Holding advanced qualifications in glaucoma management, paediatric eye care, medical retina and myopia control, Michael is among fewer than 1% of UK optometrists to achieve Fellowship of the College of Optometrists.

A former Chair of NHS NES Optometric Education Advisory Board and Executive Board member of Optometry Scotland, Michael helped to shape the national strategy of Eye Care in Scotland, including during COVID-19.

In 2024, he helped establish Scotland’s first VCHP eye care clinic at the Crisis Skylight in Edinburgh, which is a dedicated clinic for people experiencing homelessness, delivering life-changing vision care and championing accessible eye health.