Meet the team: Rob Nicol – Clinical Innovation Specialist
In our monthly Meet the Team series, we celebrate the people who keep our business ticking behind the scenes, learning more about their role at Eyoto, career journey, and what drives them everyday.
We chatted with Clinical Innovation Specialist for Aetheia, Rob Nicol who has been with us since 2022, where he holds over 30 years experience in the optics sector, with previous roles in dispensing and Contact Lens fitting and aftercare.
As part of our team, Rob helps deliver training for the Aetheia model to optometrists, eye doctors, technicians and lab operatives across the globe, both in person and online.
We sat down with Rob to find out a little bit more about his eye care career to date and some of the influential figures who have guided him over the years.
What is your role at Eyoto?
I help clinicians transition from analogue slit lamp systems to digital imaging solutions. That includes supporting practices as they adopt Aetheia, making sure installations run smoothly, providing training, and helping customers get the very best from their new technology.
Seeing people gain confidence with digital workflows is one of the most rewarding parts of my role.
How did you land your first job in the sector?
It was actually down to a bit of luck! My grandfather was an optometrist, and growing up I always enjoyed flicking through his Optician magazines. I spotted a role as an optical assistant in Oxford, and it felt like a natural fit. That opportunity sparked a career in optics that's now lasted more than 30 years.
How has the industry changed since you started?
The pace of innovation has been incredible. There are now so many advanced diagnostic tools available, giving clinicians access to far more information than ever before. Digital imaging, automation and connected technologies have transformed the way eye care is delivered, helping practitioners make more informed clinical decisions and improve the patient experience.
What does a typical working day look like for you?
No two days are ever the same, which is something I really enjoy. One day I might be working from home, supporting customers remotely, troubleshooting issues, or helping to improve Aetheia's automation and workflows. The next day I could be travelling across the UK, or even overseas, to install new systems or train clinicians and practice teams on how to get the most from the technology. The variety keeps every week interesting.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Without a doubt, it's seeing customers experience the 'wow' factor when they first use Aetheia. Watching clinicians realise how much easier digital imaging can make their workflow, and seeing their excitement when they discover what the system can do, is incredibly satisfying.
Who has been the most influential mentor or figure in your career?
My former boss and supervisor, Cathy Mullen, had a huge influence on my career. She taught me that optics is always about people first, and that patients should be at the heart of every clinical decision. That's something I've carried with me throughout my career.
What's the best piece of advice you've received?
"Don't overthink it." Sometimes the simplest advice is the most valuable. It's helped me stay focused, trust my experience and avoid getting caught up in unnecessary complications.
What's been your proudest achievement, professional or otherwise?
Completing Chase the Sun is definitely up there. Cycling over 200 miles in a single day, from the Isle of Sheppey to Burnham-on-Sea, was an incredible challenge. We crossed the finish line with just 15 minutes to spare, and it remains one of my proudest personal achievements.
If you weren't working in optics, what other career path could you see yourself pursuing?
I'd probably have gone into archaeology. I've always been fascinated by history, discovering how people lived in the past, and uncovering the stories hidden beneath the surface.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy getting hands-on with my car and spending time working on restoration projects. I also love expanding my palate by trying new foods and exploring different cuisines whenever I get the chance.