DALLAS—Essilor of America has promoted Rick Gadd to become president of Essilor of America, effective Sept. 1. He will take on the responsibilities currently held by Eric Leonard, who be taking on new senior responsibilities for the Essilor Group at that time. Gadd joined Essilor of America in 2011 as senior vice president of key accounts, a group he led until 2017 when he was named president of ECP sales and services. In his most current role, Gadd has been responsible for leading the brand and lab sales organization, Kodak brand and Partner Labs to accelerate customer growth and satisfaction through eyecare professional partnership and customized product and service innovation. Prior to his roles at Essilor of America, Gadd served as a senior leader at Motorola.

"I warmly thank Eric Leonard for his significant contribution to the strategic development and success of Essilor of America during the past four years," said John Carrier, chief operating officer, Essilor International. "Eric and Rick will work together over the next few months on a transition plan that ensures Essilor of America will continue to drive unique innovations and services for its customers and live our group's mission of improving lives by improving sight," Carrier added.

Leonard has held a variety of roles within Essilor since 2002. Most recently, prior to joining Essilor of America in 2014, he served as the president of Essilor Europe.

Matt Tackman, current vice president of brand sales, has been named as senior vice president of ECP sales and services to lead the brand and lab sales organization as Gadd takes his new role. He has worked within Essilor of America for 10 years in a variety of leadership roles within the sales organization.