16 February 2024

Obituary Malcolm Polley

It is with deepest sorrow and regret that FODO learned this week of the sad death of Malcolm Polley on 10 February after a long illness.  

Following a career at the highest levels of optical manufacturing, Malcolm became Chair of the Federation of Manufacturing Opticians (FMO now Optical Suppliers Association) between 2004 and 2006 and then its CEO from 2006 to 2014.  Malcolm was not only the driving force behind Optrafair but deeply committed to the optical sector and a strong believer that optics was stronger when all the sector bodies stood and worked together for the good of all. This ethos made him instrumental in the purchase of a joint headquarters for FMO, FODO and ABDO at 199 Gloucester Terrace and a strong supporter of the concept of the Optical Confederation. 

FODO director David Hewlett said:  Malcolm will be sadly missed. He was old school in the very best sense: a gentleman without peer, a generous colleague with a warm sense of humour, and a great friend to all who knew him.  Our warmest thoughts are with Jean, their children and families and all Malcolm's friends at this very sad time."