Canadian Association of Optometrists Appoints Joelle Walker as New CEO

Published on December 17, 2025
OTTAWA, Ontario—The Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO) has announced that Joelle Walker will assume the role of chief executive officer (CEO), effective January 19, 2026. Walker will replace François Couillard, CAO’s current CEO, who will retire at the end of 2025 after a career spanning more than 40 years, the announcement noted. Reporting to the CAO Council, Walker will be responsible for advancing the association’s strategic vision, strengthening the national voice of optometry and promoting optimal and timely access to vision care for all Canadians, the CAO said.