Erin Jackson and Jonathan Payne have joined the Auckland-based central support team at OPSM NZ as Human Resources (HR) and professional services manager, respectively.

Payne replaces Hirdesh Nair who has moved to Sydney to take up another OPSM role. Like Nair, Payne will be responsible for all OPSM’s New Zealand-based optometrists. A former professional teaching fellow with the School of Optometry and Vision Science (SOVS) at the University of Auckland, he says he’s excited by the prospect of expanding OPSM NZ optometrists’ clinical understanding by providing both the latest tools and technology they need for their practice and by looking after their passions and clinical needs, and matching all of these as best he can. “For me, personally, I’m enjoying the challenge of stepping out of my comfort zone from a clinical role to a supporting role.”

Prior to working with SOVS, Payne was an optometrist in a private practice in Manukau, where he also worked closely with Auckland DHB to deliver a diabetic photo-screening programme. Jackson is new to the world of optics, having previously worked with building company Arrow International and advertising company OMD in HR roles. She says she fell into the people-side of business by chance after filling the role when it needed doing, while working for a start-up firm in London. “I was paid next to nothing, but ended up loving it and have been working in HR roles ever since.” Jackson says her goal as OPSM NZ’s HR manager is ultimately to create a culture where staff love coming to work every day. “It’s a good time to join OPSM. We’ve now got a full support team and, with Australia’s backing, are fully geared up for success.”

Payne and Jackson join OPSM NZ’s country manager Samantha Payne, who was appointed in January this year.