Aston EyeTech appoints new chief exec

2 March 2017

• Former spin out company of Aston University appoints Carl D Francis, from the consumer electronics industry, as new Group Chief Executive. 

Former Aston University spin out company Aston EyeTech Limited (AET), a world leader in ophthalmic instrumentation and diagnosis support technology, has announced the appointment of Carl D Francis as Group Chief Executive.

Francis, 57, comes from the consumer electronics industry, most recently as CEO at P2i. Over the past eight years, he and his team built P2i from pre-revenue technology start-up to dominant global player in its sector.

Aston EyeTech is a technology spin out from Aston University’s Bio-medical Engineering and Optometry Departments, and has developed a range of highly portable ophthalmic instrumentation which is integrated with the Company’s proprietary diagnostic support software platform.

Commenting on his appointment, Francis said: “Aston EyeTech is revolutionizing the eye care ecosystem, and in the next few years will fundamentally change the way that ocular healthcare is delivered around the globe. AET has the right ingredients - game changing technology, supportive investors, and a great team – all aimed at disrupting the face of 21st century ophthalmology. I am honored to be a part of this journey”.

AET Chairman John Handley said: “We are delighted to have a leader of Carl’s calibre take Aston EyeTech into the future. We welcome the experience, energy and vision that he brings”.

Based in Birmingham, Aston EyeTech was established in 2013, and is backed by Mercia Technologies, Aston University, and Finance Birmingham. The Company is planning on launching its Series A funding round mid-2017.

For more information on Aston EyeTech, go to www.astoneyetech.com or contact Mandie de Beer at [email protected].

ENDS 

Notes to the editor

About Aston EyeTech

• Aston EyeTech is revolutionizing the Ocular Care Ecosystem through increased portability, improved accuracy, and lower cost. Established in 2013 by Aston University based on the PhD thesis “Ophthalmic Engineering” by now-Chief Technology Officer Dr Thomas Drew, the Company is developing a complete range of eyecare technologies incorporating ophthalmic equipment which is much more portable and accurate than anything on the market today. All of these are integrated into a range of proprietary software platforms including diagnostic support, optical prescribing tools, and patient/customer support.
• Mercia Technologies PLC is AIM listed and provides a complete capital solution for technology businesses. It is one of the leading investment groups focused on UK technology, specializing in the commercialization of pioneering businesses. Mercia creates capital growth for shareholders by operating as a national player in the creation, funding, and development of high-growth technology opportunities. Forward Innovation Fund, WM Enterprise Limited ("WME") and Mercia Fund Management are the precursors of Mercia Technologies PLC.

About Aston University

• Founded in 1895 and a University since 1966, Aston University has been always been a force for change. For more than 50 years the University has been transforming lives through pioneering research, innovative teaching and graduate employability success. Aston is renowned for its opportunity enabler through broad access and inspiring academics, providing education that is applied and has real impact on all areas of society, business and industry. True to Aston’s Coat of Arms which bears the word ‘Forward’, in 2016 Aston recently held a year-long anniversary celebration to recognise its heritage and achievements, but with a focus to drive forward the next stage in the University’s exciting journey. www.aston.ac.uk/50

For more information, call Ben Kennedy, Press & PR Officer, on 0121 204 4592 or email [email protected]