Carl Spear, OD
MASON, Ohio—Luxottica has named Carl Spear, OD, as senior vice president, eyecare, North America, VMAIL has learned. In his role, “Spear will be responsible for doctor recruiting, retention and development, doctor practice growth and fostering Luxottica’s strong reputation across the OD community,” the company announced internally. “This is a key role for the company given Luxottica’s heavy focus on quality vision care and the success and development of its doctors who play a critical role in its retail practices across N.A.,” a Luxottica spokesperson said. Spear has more than 20 years of expertise in the eyecare industry with a broad and diverse background.

Prior to this role, he served as the senior director of professional services at Vision Group Holdings, where he contracted and managed a network of optometrists and ophthalmologists. He has also served as director of professional development and strategic accounts at Alcon, where he managed the Vision Care Speaker Alliance. During this time, he developed and implemented Alcon's doctor facing initiatives and provided strategic support for multiple doctor alliances and strategic partners, including Luxottica.

Dr. Spear has also held the position of director of continuing education and vendor relations for Vision Source and has written, lectured and consulted with industry leaders on a variety of disease topics. He has served as an active member on the Florida Board of Optometry.

He is currently on the board of directors for the American Academy of Optometry and also serves as the Commander of the 403rd ASTS at Keesler Air Force Base.

Originally from Kentucky, Dr. Spear obtained his optometry degree at UAB's School of Optometry and graduated with his MBA from Auburn University. He and his wife, Dr. Katie Gilbert Spear, previously owned and operated a seven-location integrated optometry/ophthalmology practice in Pensacola, Florida that they sold in 2016.