DULUTH, Ga.—National Vision Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: EYE), one of the nation’s largest optical retailers, announced that Bill Clark has been named the company’s first chief people officer. He will report to chief executive officer Reade Fahs. In the newly created role, Clark will be responsible for leading, integrating and enhancing the human resources, training and organizational development functions and ensuring that National Vision continues to provide a strong company culture and experience allowing associates and optometrists to thrive, according to the company’s recent announcement.

“We are excited to welcome Bill to the National Vision family,” Fahs said in the announcement. “Bill brings with him deep experience in helping organizations attract and develop the best team members and build cultures where people are empowered to do their best work. … [W]e are looking forward to tapping into his expertise to ensure that we remain focused on being the place where optometrists and associates want to spend their entire careers.”

Clark succeeds senior vice president, chief human resources officer Jeff Busbee, who is retiring after having served National Vision for 24 years. Busbee will remain at the company for a period of time to help support Clark’s transition into his new role, according to the announcement. “Jeff has played a pivotal role in the life and long-term success of this company,” Fahs added. “We are so grateful for his service to National Vision these past 24 years.”

Clark comes to National Vision most recently from retailer Five Below Inc., where he served as senior vice president of human resources and a strategic partner to the business. Prior to that, he served in a variety of human resources and training capacities at several value-segment retailers, including Dollar General, Sam’s Clubs and Walmart.

“The culture of any organization is a critical foundation to its success,” Clark said. “National Vision is a company with an incredible history built on a rich tradition of putting people first – not only the patients and customers receiving eyecare and eyewear, but also the associates and optometrists [who] provide that care and service. I am thrilled to join such a fantastic organization and contribute to advancing its mission.”