ESCRS 2026 brought our Vision Executives team to London for a weekend of reconnecting with familiar faces, building new relationships and exploring developments in ophthalmic technology. Spending time with the people behind these products is always a highlight of the congress. It allows us to hear first-hand about their work, understand the challenges they are addressing and see the equipment up close. This year, our conversations extended beyond the exhibition floor. We also brought industry leaders together for our “Building High-Performing Teams in Ophthalmology” event, exploring the talent and leadership challenges facing businesses across the sector.
A closer look at ophthalmic technology
Across the congress, we visited exhibitors and explored products supporting surgical procedures, clinical examinations and retinal imaging. Here are a few highlights from the technology we saw.
BVI Medical: Virtuoso
At BVI Medical, we explored Virtuoso, a combined cataract and vitreoretinal surgical platform supporting both anterior and posterior segment procedures. The system brings these capabilities together with advanced fluidics technology that combines flow and pressure control. It was an opportunity to learn more about how BVI is approaching surgical versatility and control within a single platform.
Alcon: UNITY VCS
Alcon’s UNITY VCS was another highlight, combining cataract and vitreoretinal capabilities with ultrasound technology and intelligent intraocular pressure control. Its fluidics technology helps maintain pressure within the eye throughout surgery, while its 4D phaco technology supports cataract removal. Seeing the system at the congress gave us a closer look at Alcon’s approach to surgical efficiency and control.
MediWorks: Slit lamps and fundus imaging
We also spent time exploring MediWorks’ slit lamps and fundus camera technology. These devices support examination of the front of the eye and retinal imaging. Meeting the team provided an opportunity to learn more about the Shanghai-based manufacturer’s ophthalmic equipment portfolio and see its products first-hand.
NEITZ: IO-Vega
NEITZ’s IO-Vega offered a different perspective on ophthalmic equipment design, with a focus on portability and clinician comfort. The lightweight, cordless binocular indirect ophthalmoscope is used to examine the retina. Adjustable LED illumination and a balanced headset are designed to support examination while helping reduce fatigue during prolonged use.
Bringing people challenges into the conversation
Alongside exploring technology, we hosted “Building High-Performing Teams in Ophthalmology” on Sunday13th September, 2026. The event brought industry leaders together to discuss how organisations attract talent, develop their teams and lead through growth. These are conversations central to our work at Vision Executives, and it was valuable to hear the perspectives and experiences of people across the industry. Gill Williams joined James Pickering, Managing Director of Vision Executives, alongside guest speakers Amanda Cardwell Carones and Nik Rudge. Together with contributions from attendees, the discussion explored the practical challenges of building teams that can support an organisation’s ambitions. Thank you to our speakers and everyone who joined us, shared their experiences and contributed to the conversation.
Looking beyond the congress
Our time at ESCRS reinforced the importance of staying connected to both the technology and the people shaping ophthalmology. For us as specialist recruiters, these conversations help deepen our understanding of the businesses we support, the environments their teams work in and the leadership capabilities they need as they grow. Thank you to everyone who welcomed us onto their stand, introduced us to their products or made time for a conversation. We look forward to continuing those discussions beyond London.
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