Specsavers Pathway Program a Drawcard for Graduates

Early in his university studies, Jordan Marr, Optical Director at the Specsavers Lismore store, was already thinking about his future optometry career direction.

“I had read about Specsavers and investigated the Pathway Program while I was still in my first year of university. It piqued my interest as I was drawn to the idea of being more than just an optometrist.

Jordan felt a strong alignment to the Specsavers company ethos and core values. Driven by an aspiration to one day run his own business, he was also impressed by the Specsavers Pathway Program, mentorship programs and strong level of support for graduates.

“I joined Specsavers in 2015 and really enjoyed the self-discovery aspect of the Pathway Program. It helped me to explore my own leadership style. In fact, years later I’m still using the concepts I learned, not only at work but also as a self-reflection practice in my personal life.

“The Pathway Program taught me valuable skills in conflict resolution, change management and difficult conversations, all of which are crucial as a store Director.

Jordan says the support and mentoring he received from Specsavers Partners throughout the program, enabled him to get the most out it.

“Looking back now, the support I received from the Partners gave me the skills to be able to reflect on what type of Partner I wanted to be in the future. The Pathway Project that I completed as part of the program required me to prove how I was going to do it on my own.

Throughout his time with Specsavers, Jordan has had the opportunity to relocate to Lismore, in the New South Wales Northern Rivers region.

“I spent my youth growing up in cities around the Gold Coast and Macau and wanted a change of scenery. I knew I could go almost anywhere with Specsavers and there was an opportunity in the Northern Rivers that I couldn’t refuse. I’d spent time camping and going on road trips around Kingscliff, Yamba and Byron Bay so knew how beautiful and peaceful the area was.

“I also knew Lismore was a large store that would challenge me to continue learning and evolving.

Jordan has immersed himself in the Lismore community.

“Lismore is close to the best beaches in the world and there’s a huge pub trivia scene. But what really makes this place great is the overwhelming sense of community, something that you just don’t get in a metro area.

“The Lismore locals are so patient and respectful of me as a clinician. It makes me feel that I’m truly appreciated for the impact I’m having on the community I serve.

There’s been many highlights in Jordan’s Specsavers career, but he says that being able to reward and mentor his team, has been the one that’s meant the most to him.

“Being able to reward my team and support them alongside Derek and Leah in our Lismore store has been a true highlight for me. I enjoy being able to give guidance to those wanting to push their career further and being part of conversations that impact the future of Specsavers. To me, this is what makes this ‘partnership’ so successful.