Why Specsavers was my "yes"

When Sam Thomas first stepped into the world of optics 16 years ago, she never imagined it would lead to running her own store on the Cornish coast. Her journey from Optical Assistant to national trainer, to qualified optometrist, and now Partner at Specsavers in Cornwall, is a powerful example of how Specsavers offers more than just a job.

“My name is Sam Thomas, and I’ve been in optics for 16 years. But I only qualified as an optometrist three years ago - later in life, as a mature student. My journey into optometry wasn’t typical, and neither was my path to partnership. I’m now a proud Partner at Specsavers in Cornwall, and I want to share my story those who might not realise just how many doors Specsavers can open.

My non-conventional path to optometry

I started out at a well-known Opticians as an Optical Assistant and eventually became a national trainer. I loved the industry and knew I wanted to go further, so I went back to basics and studied optometry at Cardiff University. Though I did do my pre-reg with Specsavers. After qualifying, I stayed with Specsavers for six months before moving to another high-street Opticians. I wanted to experience something different, having spent so long in one place.

I didn’t know what Specsavers could offer me!

At the time, I was mostly focused on achieving a better work-life balance. I wanted to spend more time with my family and look after my elderly parents. I didn’t know what else was out there - I hadn’t explored other businesses or career paths. I wasn’t aware of the development opportunities Specsavers offered, like further qualifications, or going down the Dispensing Optician pathway. Had I known, I may have stayed longer after qualifying and my career might have taken a very different turn much earlier. But you don’t know what you don’t know!

Eventually, I realised I wanted more than just a clinical role - I wanted to run my own store. The Opticians I was at had much less opportunity for this to become a reality. So, I made the decision to leave my position as Optometrist, completed the necessary steps to become a partner before joining Specsavers as a Partner in Cornwall just three short months ago. That meant relocating from Bristol, where I am still selling my house. Specsavers have supported me every step of the way, from accommodation to relocation funding. They understood my personal circumstances and helped me make the move as smooth as possible.

Relocation made easy with Specsavers

Optical Partners are hard to find in Cornwall, and I was drawn to the coast for both personal and professional reasons. I’d always imagined retiring here, but I thought - why wait? Why not enjoy it now while building a career I love?

I’m still spending weekends back in Bristol getting my house ready for sale, but the support from Specsavers has never wavered. My manager regularly checks in, and I never feel like just a number here. I can be honest about my needs, and I’m always listened to. That level of care and flexibility is rare - and it’s one of the reasons I knew I’d eventually find my way back to Specsavers after my pre-reg.

The move has transformed my lifestyle. As a Partner, I’m accountable for my team and my store, and I care deeply about both. It’s a different kind of caring - bigger, more meaningful. I’m leading a team, shaping a business, and making a difference in my community. And I’m doing it while supporting my family and living in a place I love.

There’s more to Specsavers than meets the eye

Specsavers has also supported my professional development. I’ve had access to leadership training, clinical development, and a clear path for growth. There’s security here - something that’s increasingly hard to find in locum roles. At Specsavers, I’ve found a career for life.

If you’re an optometrist thinking about your next move, here’s my advice: don’t assume you have to be at Specsavers already to progress. You don’t. I joined as a Partner from outside the business, and the opportunities were open to me.

The perception that Specsavers is all fast-paced clinics isn’t accurate anymore. It’s about quality care, not rushing through appointments.

There’s so much more to Specsavers than clinical development. You can run your own business, explore different roles, and build a career that suits your life. The benefits are huge - security, flexibility, development, and the chance to do more for your community and your family.

For me, Specsavers ticks all the boxes. It’s given me the chance to lead, grow, and live the life I want.”