Tom McNicholas

Tom has more than 30 years of experience in engineering, manufacturing, R&D, and product and process development. He has extensive experience and a strong reputation within the ophthalmic medical device industry.

As an engineer and manager, Tom contributed to the success of Mobil Chemical Company, A&E Plastics, Beckman Instruments, and American Hospital Products. As Director of Product Development, R&D and Operations for Allergan/Advanced Medical Optics, Tom identified new product opportunities, led global commercialization teams, and oversaw design and development of all intraocular lens and insertion systems.

Tom’s professional experience includes Chief Operating Officer at HOYA Surgical Optics in Singapore. His leadership responsibilities included Research and Development, Quality, Regulatory Affairs, Clinical Research, Manufacturing, Global Supply Chain, and Project Management. As Director of Product Development – R&D and Operations for Allergan/Advanced Medical Optics, Tom identified new product opportunities, led global commercialization teams, and oversaw design and development of all intraocular lens and delivery systems.

Tom is the Principal and Founder of PATH Product Development, a product development consultancy that specialized in ophthalmic device technology. PATH partners with clients to provide planning and execution of all aspects of product development from the proof-of-concept stage through commercialization. Services are provided to entrepreneurs, as well as small and large companies. Recent engagements have included technology and product landscaping, technology transfer and licensing, manufacturing process analysis and development, project management and M&A due diligence.

Tom holds a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Union College in New York, a Biomedical Engineering certificate from the University of California, and a Quality Engineering certificate from the American Society for Quality. He also holds four patents for his intraocular lens discoveries.