Meet Bharat Duggal, RO and Store Manager

Bharat Duggal began as an optician, focusing on training new team members and supporting daily operations. He was promoted to Lead Optician, managing technical and clinical challenges and supporting the team. A year later, Bharat was given the opportunity to run a contact lenses clinic while also supporting store management. We are thrilled to see Bharat take on a new challenge as Store Manager.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your career so far

Before Specsavers, I worked as an optician at a different optical retailer. I joined Specsavers in June 2022 as an optician in Guildford Town Centre, where I initially focused on training new team members, alongside supporting management for smoother daily operations.

Within six months of working, I was promoted to lead optician in the store, where I was handling all the technical and clinical challenges and supporting my team. After about a year of working in that role I was given the opportunity to run a contact lens clinic within the store, providing contact lens fittings and training twice a week. Now as Retail Store Manager, I run my contact lens clinic and support with store management.

How did Specsavers help and support your development?

From day one, my managers have been very supportive towards my personal development. I have been given opportunities as well as constructive feedback which has helped me to increase my skillset and gain experience by working in different roles within the store.

What gives you pride in your role?

Specsavers gave me a chance to focus primarily on providing healthcare services rather than being a salesman for the organization. I feel very proud knowing I’m making difference in the lives of people on a daily basis.

What would you say to encourage someone thinking about applying?

For anyone applying for any position in Specsavers, I would say that you’ll get everything with this organization. There’s a good work life balance, amazing support and recognition, an extremely positive work environment, and the list goes on.

Finally, what do you like doing outside of work?

I love to be in nature. I love going on hikes and I’m also a fan of extreme sports. I’ve done bungee jumping and the edge walk on CN tower, which was amazing – skydiving is next on the list!