Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Published Work
Published writing:
Timeline
Generic

Francois Cronje

Tamworth,NSW

Summary

Resourceful manager and Business Development Consultant offering history of success, coordinating and monitoring operations across various departments, in medical device manufacturing and one-on-one dispensing, in clinical optical environments.

Dedicated to effective and successful patient outcomes and driven to empathetic problem solving of patient needs, due to strong communications skills.

Committed to streamlining operations to decrease costs and promote organizational efficiency. I am highly motivated with a hardworking mentality to maintain quality of services and products.

I have indeed reached a glass ceiling in my career, and have for years desired a more hands on clinical role within the medical field. I have long had an interest in, and some exposure to, limb prosthetics, surgical robotics and microsurgical optics.

I am humble, adept at learning new concepts and very adaptable. I never shy away from sweeping up the shop floor at the end of the day and "its not my job" is not in my vocabulary.

I am desperate to dedicate myself to the pursuit of a diverse clinical career progression and to prove myself as a valuable asset to the organisation.

Overview

30
30
years of professional experience

Work History

FUTURE Clinical Consultant/Specialist

Stryker
07.2024 - Current

Providing technical and clinical specialist expertise to internal and external customers.

  • Attending surgical procedures and assist surgeons and hospital staff in the effective use of Stryker products
  • Conducting in-service training and support Territory Managers.
  • Confidently identifying and troubleshooting product-related problems and/or issues related to a customer's application of a product.
  • Interacting with various internal stakeholders (e.g., marketing, product development) concerning products and product application.
  • Maintaining product/instrumentation knowledge and professional skills through internal training, external seminars and other available means.
  • Contributing to departmental improvements in quality metrics by participating in performance improvement initiatives related to trauma care delivery processes.
  • Enhancing interdisciplinary communication by collaborating with physicians, therapists, and other healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive care plans for patients.

Dispensing Optician, Supervisor & In-Store Trainer

Specsavers Tamworth
09.2023 - Current
  • Resolved customer complaints professionally, maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction and trust in our services.
  • Increased repeat business by fostering strong client relationships through attentive follow-up care and communication after purchase completion.
  • Adhered to strict industry standards for quality control, guaranteeing accurate prescription fulfillment for all clients.
  • Collaborated with optometrists to deliver comprehensive eye care services for patients, improving overall patient experience.
  • Demonstrated exemplary customer service by consistently exceeding expectations, receiving numerous positive testimonials from satisfied clients.
  • Trained new team members on dispensing procedures, enhancing staff knowledge and performance across the board.
  • Performed regular equipment maintenance checks to ensure proper functioning during patient visits, mitigating potential delays or disruptions in service provision.
  • Increased team productivity by implementing efficient workflows and setting clear expectations for staff members.
  • Streamlined inventory management with meticulous record-keeping and organization, reducing product loss and ensuring optimal stock levels.

Operations Manager

Essilor-Luxottica NZ
08.2022 - 04.2023
  • Supervised operations staff and kept employees compliant with company policies and procedures.
  • Conducted regular performance reviews, identifying areas for improvement and developing action plans to address them.
  • Managed inventory and supply chain operations to achieve timely and accurate delivery of goods and services.
  • Led hiring, onboarding and training of new hires to fulfill business requirements.
  • Developed systems and procedures to improve operational quality and team efficiency.
  • Oversaw facility maintenance, ensuring optimal functionality of equipment and infrastructure at all times.
  • Facilitated smooth collaboration between departments through clear communication channels.
  • Introduced new methods, practices, and systems to reduce turnaround time.
  • Handled staff training initiatives aimed at upskilling the workforce to meet dynamic industry demands.
  • Spearheaded process improvements, resulting in increased productivity and reduced operational costs.
  • Directed initiatives to improve work environment, company culture or overall business strategy.

Sales and Operations Manager

Shamir Optical NZ
09.2017 - 07.2022
  • Analyzed sales metrics to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement in the overall operations strategy.
  • Championed continuous improvement by conducting regular reviews of internal processes to drive efficiency gains.
  • Enhanced customer experience by addressing service issues promptly and professionally, resolving concerns efficiently.
  • Developed strong relationships with key clients, leading to increased customer satisfaction and retention rates.
  • Assisted in the development and execution of successful marketing campaigns, increasing brand awareness and generating leads.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams, resulting in improved communication and coordination between departments.
  • Played an integral role in launching new products successfully into the market through targeted sales efforts and promotional activities.
  • Reduced operational costs through the identification and elimination of inefficient processes and practices.
  • Implemented innovative solutions for optimizing inventory management and reducing stock shortages.
  • Coordinated trade show participation effectively, securing valuable leads while staying within budget constraints.
  • Collaborated with upper management to implement continuous improvements and exceed team goals.

Dispensing Optician

Gary Filer Optometrists
03.2016 - 08.2017
  • Resolved customer complaints professionally, maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction and trust in our services.
  • Increased repeat business by fostering strong client relationships through attentive follow-up care and communication after purchase completion.
  • Adhered to strict industry standards for quality control, guaranteeing accurate prescription fulfillment for all clients.
  • Collaborated with optometrists to deliver comprehensive eye care services for patients, improving overall patient experience.
  • Demonstrated exemplary customer service by consistently exceeding expectations, receiving numerous positive testimonials from satisfied clients.
  • Trained new team members on dispensing procedures, enhancing staff knowledge and performance across the board.
  • Performed regular equipment maintenance checks to ensure proper functioning during patient visits, mitigating potential delays or disruptions in service provision.
  • Increased team productivity by implementing efficient workflows and setting clear expectations for staff members.
  • Streamlined inventory management with meticulous record-keeping and organization, reducing product loss and ensuring optimal stock levels.

Dispensing Optician

Ferreira, Kennedy & Zwarts Optometrists
08.2014 - 10.2015
  • Resolved customer complaints professionally, maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction and trust in our services.
  • Increased repeat business by fostering strong client relationships through attentive follow-up care and communication after purchase completion.
  • Adhered to strict industry standards for quality control, guaranteeing accurate prescription fulfillment for all clients.
  • Collaborated with optometrists to deliver comprehensive eye care services for patients, improving overall patient experience.
  • Demonstrated exemplary customer service by consistently exceeding expectations, receiving numerous positive testimonials from satisfied clients.
  • Trained new team members on dispensing procedures, enhancing staff knowledge and performance across the board.
  • Performed regular equipment maintenance checks to ensure proper functioning during patient visits, mitigating potential delays or disruptions in service provision.
  • Increased team productivity by implementing efficient workflows and setting clear expectations for staff members.
  • Streamlined inventory management with meticulous record-keeping and organization, reducing product loss and ensuring optimal stock levels.

Quality Assurance Manager

Carl Zeiss Vision
12.2011 - 07.2014
  • Conducted regular audits to ensure adherence to established protocols, maintaining consistency across the organization.
  • Trained team members on quality assurance principles, fostering a culture of accountability and high performance.
  • Facilitated communication between departments regarding quality concerns, fostering collaboration towards shared goals.
  • Enhanced product quality by implementing comprehensive QA processes and procedures.
  • Mentored junior staff members in best practices for quality management, contributing to overall team growth and development.
  • Investigated customer complaints and performed corrective actions to resolve quality issues.
  • Established robust quality documentation systems that ensured traceability throughout the entire production lifecycle.
  • Conducted risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential quality issues.
  • Conducted process and system audits to identify areas of improvement and enforce compliance with industry standards.
  • Improved customer satisfaction ratings through meticulous attention to detail and consistent quality control measures.
  • Developed and implemented comprehensive quality assurance plans to monitor product quality and adherence to regulatory standards.

Dispensing Optician/Practice Manager

Paul Walch Optometrists
05.2007 - 11.2011
  • Resolved customer complaints professionally, maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction and trust in our services.
  • Increased repeat business by fostering strong client relationships through attentive follow-up care and communication after purchase completion.
  • Adhered to strict industry standards for quality control, guaranteeing accurate prescription fulfillment for all clients.
  • Collaborated with optometrists to deliver comprehensive eye care services for patients, improving overall patient experience.
  • Demonstrated exemplary customer service by consistently exceeding expectations, receiving numerous positive testimonials from satisfied clients.
  • Trained new team members on dispensing procedures, enhancing staff knowledge and performance across the board.
  • Performed regular equipment maintenance checks to ensure proper functioning during patient visits, mitigating potential delays or disruptions in service provision.
  • Increased team productivity by implementing efficient workflows and setting clear expectations for staff members.
  • Streamlined inventory management with meticulous record-keeping and organization, reducing product loss and ensuring optimal stock levels.

Business Development Consultant

Focus Optical
08.2001 - 01.2005
  • Met with current clients to assess needs and develop improvement plans.
  • Led proposal development efforts, winning multiple high-value contracts for the company.
  • Developed customized solutions for clients, resulting in enhanced customer satisfaction and retention.
  • Elevated client engagement levels through regular communication updates and strategically planned touchpoints.
  • Achieved targeted revenue growth by implementing effective sales strategies and tactics.
  • Mentored junior team members, cultivating a culture of continuous improvement within the organization.

Dispensing Optician/Practice Manager

Stanley & De Kock Optometrists
08.2001 - 01.2005
  • Resolved customer complaints professionally, maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction and trust in our services.
  • Increased repeat business by fostering strong client relationships through attentive follow-up care and communication after purchase completion.
  • Adhered to strict industry standards for quality control, guaranteeing accurate prescription fulfillment for all clients.
  • Collaborated with optometrists to deliver comprehensive eye care services for patients, improving overall patient experience.
  • Demonstrated exemplary customer service by consistently exceeding expectations, receiving numerous positive testimonials from satisfied clients.
  • Trained new team members on dispensing procedures, enhancing staff knowledge and performance across the board.
  • Performed regular equipment maintenance checks to ensure proper functioning during patient visits, mitigating potential delays or disruptions in service provision.
  • Increased team productivity by implementing efficient workflows and setting clear expectations for staff members.
  • Streamlined inventory management with meticulous record-keeping and organization, reducing product loss and ensuring optimal stock levels.

Dispensing Optician/Optical Lab Technician

Adrian Yssel Optometrists
01.1995 - 07.2001
  • Resolved customer complaints professionally, maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction and trust in our services.
  • Increased repeat business by fostering strong client relationships through attentive follow-up care and communication after purchase completion.
  • Adhered to strict industry standards for quality control, guaranteeing accurate prescription fulfillment for all clients.
  • Collaborated with optometrists to deliver comprehensive eye care services for patients, improving overall patient experience.
  • Demonstrated exemplary customer service by consistently exceeding expectations, receiving numerous positive testimonials from satisfied clients.
  • Trained new team members on dispensing procedures, enhancing staff knowledge and performance across the board.
  • Performed regular equipment maintenance checks to ensure proper functioning during patient visits, mitigating potential delays or disruptions in service provision.
  • Increased team productivity by implementing efficient workflows and setting clear expectations for staff members.
  • Streamlined inventory management with meticulous record-keeping and organization, reducing product loss and ensuring optimal stock levels.

Education

Shamir Online Training & Implementation

Shamir Optical, Australia
Brisbane, Australia
09.2017

Registered Lead Auditor - ISO 9001

RiskZA
Johannesburg, South Africa
06.2014

Registered Internal Supplier Auditor - ISO 9001

RiskZA
Johannesburg, South Africa
10.2013

Quality Management Systems Developer - ISO 9001

RiskZA
Johannesburg, South Africa
10.2013

Business Development Training

SOLA Technologies Optical (now Carl Zeiss Vision)
Lonsdale, Australia
10.2001

Associate of Science - Dispensing Optician

Association of British Dispensing Opticians
Godmersham, Kent - United Kingdom
08.2001

FAST CAST Lens Casting Technician

Real VISION
USA
04.1996

Certified Spectacle Technician

Carl Zeiss Vision/ General Optical
Johannesburg, South Africa
01.1996

Skills

  • Medical device sales & account management
  • Business development
  • Customer service management
  • Project management
  • Operational / Production management
  • Training and skills development
  • Strategic marketing
  • Medical device manufacturing
  • Quality Assurance Auditing
  • Quality management systems development & implementation
  • Medical practice management
  • Medical device dispensing
  • Direct Patient Care
  • Adaptability and Flexibility
  • Patient Care Assessment
  • Patient Education
  • Team building
  • Problem-solving abilities

Published Work

  • https://www.nzoptics.co.nz/articles/archive/chalkeyes-presents-confidence-clobbers-clever-every-time/
  • https://www.nzoptics.co.nz/articles/archive/the-bestlaid-plans/
  • https://www.nzoptics.co.nz/articles/archive/waityou-want-what/
  • https://www.nzoptics.co.nz/articles/archive/styleeyes-managing-the-move-to-multifocals/
  • https://www.nzoptics.co.nz/articles/archive/shamiropens-new-kiwi-lab/

Published writing:

As Operations Manager for Shamir Australia in New Zealand, I was approached by the publishers of NZ Optics magazine as an occasional contributor to their optical industries local clinical publication

Timeline

FUTURE Clinical Consultant/Specialist

Stryker
07.2024 - Current

Dispensing Optician, Supervisor & In-Store Trainer

Specsavers Tamworth
09.2023 - Current

Operations Manager

Essilor-Luxottica NZ
08.2022 - 04.2023

Sales and Operations Manager

Shamir Optical NZ
09.2017 - 07.2022

Dispensing Optician

Gary Filer Optometrists
03.2016 - 08.2017

Dispensing Optician

Ferreira, Kennedy & Zwarts Optometrists
08.2014 - 10.2015

Quality Assurance Manager

Carl Zeiss Vision
12.2011 - 07.2014

Dispensing Optician/Practice Manager

Paul Walch Optometrists
05.2007 - 11.2011

Business Development Consultant

Focus Optical
08.2001 - 01.2005

Dispensing Optician/Practice Manager

Stanley & De Kock Optometrists
08.2001 - 01.2005

Dispensing Optician/Optical Lab Technician

Adrian Yssel Optometrists
01.1995 - 07.2001

Shamir Online Training & Implementation

Shamir Optical, Australia

Registered Lead Auditor - ISO 9001

RiskZA

Registered Internal Supplier Auditor - ISO 9001

RiskZA

Quality Management Systems Developer - ISO 9001

RiskZA

Business Development Training

SOLA Technologies Optical (now Carl Zeiss Vision)

Associate of Science - Dispensing Optician

Association of British Dispensing Opticians

FAST CAST Lens Casting Technician

Real VISION

Certified Spectacle Technician

Carl Zeiss Vision/ General Optical
Francois Cronje