PINELLAS PARK, Fla.—Transitions Optical, Inc. announced that Brett Craig will assume the responsibility of president, effective Jan.1, 2008. In this role, Craig, who is currently acting as chief operating officer, will drive Transitions’ business strategies, including strengthening partnerships with Transitions’ customers, to meet ongoing growth objectives.

“Obviously the role of president is one of great responsibility and great opportunity,” said Rick Elias, current president, Transitions, who will assume the role of CEO. “Throughout the past months as acting COO, Brett has built solid relationships with employees and partners alike, making his move to this role a natural one. As CEO, I will focus my efforts on aligning with key customers globally toward mutual, strategic growth.”

Craig was named COO in June 2006. He joined Transitions in July 1999 as managing director, Asia Pacific, and then moved to managing director, EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa), where he played a key role in positioning the EMEA businesses for continued growth. He holds a bachelor of science in economics from the University of Wisconsin and a master of business administration from the Cox School of Business - Southern Methodist University.

“I look forward to the challenges that will come with my new role as president of Transitions, as well as the opportunities and successes that lie ahead for our company and our partners,” said Craig. “I intend to support the products and programs that we have in place, while exploring new areas of innovation that will expand the application of our technology and the advancement of healthy sight.”