James Paton

Managing Director of Duffy-Paton Optometrists Pty Ltd

Australia

About

I'm the co-owner and manager of Duffy-Paton Optometrists, an independent optometry group focused on delivering personalised, community-driven eye care. What began as a side project has now become my full-time focus. Since taking over our first practice in July 2023 with my wife Amanda, we've grown our team from 3 to over 10 and recently expanded to a second location. My role involves overseeing operations, team development, marketing, and business strategy—ensuring we continue to grow while staying true to our values: excellent patient care, a supportive team environment, and strong local connections.

Experience

  • Managing Director at Duffy-Paton Optometrists Pty Ltd
    Jul 2023 - Present · 3 yrs

    General management of our Optometry stores based in Newcastle.

  • Project Manager at WSP
    Oct 2020 - Jun 2025 · 4 yrs 9 mos

    Secondment with Hunter Water, providing project management services for planning, design and construction projects.

  • Project Management | Planning | Energy at Sydney Water
    Oct 2018 - Oct 2020 · 2 yrs 1 mo

  • AECOM (incorporating Davis Langdon, An AECOM Company) (5 yrs)
    • Water/Wastewater Engineer
      Jan 2017 - Oct 2020 · 3 yrs 10 mos

    • Undergraduate Sustainability Engineer
      Nov 2015 - Dec 2016 · 1 yr 2 mos

  • Course Demonstrator at UNSW Australia
    2015 - 2016 · 1 yr

    Taught 3rd year Mechanical Engineering students 'Mechanics of Solids 2' and 'Mechanical Design 1' in a tutorial class setting, ensuring students achieve a deep understanding of the course content whilst developing skills to analyse and solve problems.