Conference Speakers

As a leading authority on Mental Toughness, Penny Mallory is one of the UK’s most sought-after motivational speakers. From runaway teenager to becoming the only woman in the world to compete in a World Rally Car for Ford, Penny’s journey is proof of what’s possible with resilience and self-belief. A qualified Psychological Performance Coach and Master Practitioner in CBT, she has worked with world-class teams and organisations including Microsoft, Coca-Cola, and Google. Penny’s interactive and high-energy keynotes combine powerful storytelling with evidence-based tools to help people thrive under pressure and perform at their best — in business and in life.

With over 25 years’ experience as an actor, writer and lecturer, Caroline Heywood is an expert in communication and professional presence. She specialises in helping people connect, influence and communicate with confidence — drawing on her extensive background in performance to make learning highly engaging and interactive. Caroline has delivered communication skills training to a wide range of organisations including the NHS, Morgan Stanley, the Metropolitan Police and Bauer Media Group, with a particular focus on effective conversations and mental health communication in the workplace. As a lecturer and facilitator, she’s known for creating supportive environments where participants feel empowered to find their voice and express themselves clearly. Caroline’s workshops help professionals strengthen impact, empathy and confidence — essential skills for today’s practice teams.

Cheryl Hill FBDO CertEd SMC(Tech) Prof Cert PE qualified as a Dispensing Optician in 2006 after studying at ABDO College, and has since built an extensive career across independent and multiple practices at management level. She initially lectured in Ophthalmic Dispensing at Bradford College before moving to lecture part-time in Ophthalmic Lenses and Dispensing at The University of Bradford, School of Optometry and Vision science.

Cheryl currently works as Professional Development Learning Manager for ABDO and serves as a UK and Overseas Practical and Theory Examiner. She is also a member of the Advisory Panel for All About Vision UK. An experienced CPD author, presenter and facilitator, Cheryl delivers engaging learning for both optometrists and dispensing opticians — combining deep technical knowledge with a practical, supportive teaching style.

Elizabeth Yeowart-Montgomery BSc(Hons), MCOptom, MBCLA, is an optometrist and Medical Science Liaison for EssilorLuxottica, specialising in myopia control. With nearly 30 years in optics and extensive experience in both independent and multiple settings, Elizabeth brings deep clinical knowledge and a passion for innovation in myopia management. A former Optometry Today columnist and experienced communicator, she combines academic insight with a practical understanding of what works in real-world practice. Elizabeth’s engaging, down-to-earth style helps practitioners understand how to integrate new clinical services with confidence and commercial success.

Garrey Haase BSc(Hons) MCOptom is an independent optometrist and practice owner of Yorkshire Eyewear, operating successful practices in Howden and Knaresborough. With more than 20 years’ experience, Garrey has built his reputation on combining clinical excellence with sound business acumen. Following further qualifications in myopia management at Glasgow Caledonian University, he has developed and refined profitable models for delivering this specialist service. Garrey’s practical insights into clinic set-up, patient communication and sustainable profitability make him a valuable voice for practitioners looking to grow through innovation while maintaining outstanding care standards.

James Vincent is the founder and director of Hot Source Creative, a consultancy that helps small businesses harness emerging technologies to save time and drive growth. With over 15 years’ experience in digital strategy, automation and AI, James has guided organisations across the UK — from local start-ups to national charities — to make technology practical, accessible and human. A TEDx speaker known for cutting through jargon, he’s passionate about empowering business owners to feel confident using digital tools that make a measurable difference. At SightCare LIVE, James brings a clear, relatable approach to demystifying AI for independent practices.

Lisa Howell is a Change Consultant and Executive Coach at Blackshaw Howell Consulting, specialising in organisational transformation and leadership development. With more than two decades’ experience leading change programmes across the public and private sectors, Lisa combines strategic insight with an intuitive coaching style that helps business owners and teams thrive through transition. She has worked with clients including the NHS, Amazon, Boots Opticians and Landsec, delivering bespoke strategies that turn ambition into sustainable growth. Known for her supportive yet challenging approach, Lisa helps leaders regain clarity, balance and confidence to lead with purpose — and to rediscover their “why.”

Based in the Peak District National Park, Piers is an experienced coach, facilitator and leadership development specialist who works with senior and middle managers across a wide range of business sectors. He supports organisations through change, enabling leaders to build self-awareness, develop strategic clarity and unlock the potential of their teams.

As a coach, Piers blends technique, experience and presence to help clients reflect honestly and grow with confidence. As a facilitator, he draws meaningful insights from groups with sensitivity and challenge in equal measure, creating positive and memorable learning experiences both in person and online.

Previously, Piers worked within the Home Office developing leaders and teams in Police Response Units. Outside of his professional roles, he is an expedition leader, guiding groups through challenging environments including the Arctic Circle, the Namib Desert, the jungles of Costa Rica and the mountains of Patagonia. He also volunteers weekly with the Samaritans, supporting their mission to reduce suicide.

Piers is passionate about sustainability, having chosen not to fly since 2019, and enjoys CrossFit, mountain biking and growing produce in his Peak District garden.

With over 25 years in the optical profession, Sofia Fazal is a respected optometrist, former practice owner, and business development expert. She has supported numerous practices in enhancing patient experience, developing teams and aligning clinical excellence with commercial success. Sofia has served as a Non-Executive Director on the LOCSU Board and as Chair of Wolverhampton LOC, contributing to the advancement of community eyecare across the UK. Experienced in creating and delivering CPD programmes nationally and internationally, she brings both passion and practicality to every session. Her workshops empower optical professionals to deliver outstanding care while building thriving, sustainable practices.

Sukie is a SightCare director and owns Woodhouse Opticians in Blackpool. She qualified as secondary school Art teacher and worked for ten years as a tutor with Open College Network delivering level 2 and 3 courses with active listening skills modules based on person centred counselling, to adults in hard to reach communities. As well as delivering sessions she was an internal moderator and clinical supervisor supporting trainees to effectively debrief their experiences to be more effective in their roles.