ANN ARBOR, Mich.—Advanced Vision Research (AVR) maker of TheraTears, a leading dry eye treatment system has named Diane M. Houtman OD, MBA, FAAO as vice president of Professional Relations. Houtman, a licensed optometrist, will serve as the medical and clinical lead for all AVR projects and will act as corporate liaison to the medical community.

“We welcome Dr. Houtman to the management team,” said Scott Chapman, general manager of Advanced Vision Research. “Her background as a clinician and business executive provides a unique perspective and skill set that will benefit our business both internally and externally with customers.”

Houtman earned her Bachelor’s degree from The University of Michigan and her Doctor of Optometry degree at the Illinois College of Optometry in Chicago. She completed her Refractive Surgery and Cornea Fellowship at Minnesota Eye Consultants and received an MBA from the University of Florida.

Prior to joining AVR, Houtman worked for global eyecare company, Alcon Laboratories, in a variety of positions including, associate director, Global Medical Affairs; associate director, Clinical Development and principal as a Clinical Research Scientist. In addition, she served as the Clinical and Regulatory Affairs liaison for Alcon China.