A Dagenham woman is celebrating a milestone anniversary with Specsavers – after climbing the career ladder at the locally-owned-and-run optician and audiologists.
Clare Hasler, who is now a retail director and partner at the store in The Mall, joined the business 25 years ago as an optical assistant on Saturdays.
At the time, she was studying Business Studies at college after finishing her GCSEs. After college, she decided to join Specsavers full-time.
After rising through the ranks as supervisor and store manager, Clare qualified as a dispensing optician, and became a director two years ago after earning ILM management qualifications and completing the Specsavers Pathway.
She has recently been appointed as regional vice-chair for North East London at Specsavers – a voluntary position which helps bridge the gap between stores and support services, bringing store partners together to share ideas and skills that could benefit the wider group.
Clare says: ‘When I started at the store, I never imagined I’d build a career here and be where I am 25 years later!
‘Over the years, I’ve progressed through various roles including supervisor, in-store trainer, assistant manager and store manager. A significant milestone was being given the opportunity to study Ophthalmic Dispensing at City & Islington College.
‘Balancing a three-year course with work and two young children was challenging, but with the support of my colleagues, store director and family, I achieved my professional qualification and graduated as a dispensing optician in 2016, which was an incredibly proud moment.
‘In my time here, I’ve witnessed our Dagenham store grow and relocate twice to better serve our local community. I’ve also enjoyed helping colleagues advance their careers and supervised several students to support their professional qualifications.
‘If I could offer one piece of advice to anyone considering a career in optics, it would be to seize opportunities as they arise. They can lead you further than you ever imagined!’
Gurjit Singh Sehmi, ophthalmic director at Specsavers Dagenham Heathway, says: ‘It’s been an absolute pleasure watching Clare’s journey during my time here. She’s a talented and supportive store partner, and all of the team here feel very lucky to have her as our retail director. We can’t wait to see what she does next.’
Specsavers Dagenham Heathway is open seven days a week at 27/2 The Mall, Dagenham, RM10 8RE.
To book an appointment, visit www.specsavers.co.uk/book/dagenham or call 020 8596 9998.
