Stephen Speares appointed next executive director of ASCRS

The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) announced that Stephen H. Speares will become the society’s executive director later this year.

Mr. Speares succeeds David Karcher, who will retire in December after leading the ASCRS for 38 years.

“I am excited to lead ASCRS and build on Dave’s incredible track record of leadership, dedication to ophthalmology and unwavering commitment to those in the profession,” said Speares. “As we move into this new era, I look forward to leveraging the society’s founding vision, rooted in innovation, to identify new opportunities to increase the value ASCRS brings to anterior segment surgeons, and the patients they serve.”

An accomplished ophthalmology executive, Speares is currently the vice president, Europe and Middle East, at Glaukos. He previously worked at Alcon, where he held a variety of operational positions during an 18-year tenure.

The announcement comes several months after ASCRS announced Karcher’s retirement, which will be effective December 31, 2018. Mr. Karcher will remain in an advisory role through the end of the year to ensure a seamless transition.

“As we move into the future, our society is committed to anticipating and responding to the changing needs of anterior segment surgeons,” said Thomas W. Samuelson, MD, incoming president of ASCRS. “We are confident that Steve’s leadership will build member affinity, increase member engagement and accelerate the society’s growth.”