ST. LOUIS—The World Council of Optometry (WCO)—a non-profit membership association with a mission to support optometrists in promoting eye health and vision care as a human right through advocacy, education, policy development and humanitarian outreach—announced the selection of Susan J. Chiles, MA, as managing director.

Chiles was the marketing communication manager in the Affiliate Relations and Membership Group at the American Optometric Association (AOA) and currently serves as president of the St. Louis Institute for Association Leadership. She has more than 20 years of experience in corporate marketing, communications and brand management.

“We are very pleased to announce this appointment,” stated president Uduak Udom. “Susan will bring leadership and creativity to WCO along with a deep sense of commitment to our profession.”

As WCO managing director, Susan will work with the officers, executive committee and governing board of the WCO in fulfilling the organization’s mission to facilitate the development of optometry around the world. A key component of her new position will be to direct all aspects of the WCO’s relationship with its membership including recruitment and retention, fiscal management, and marketing and communications.