Meet the Council: Annabel Thomas

  Posted by: Dental Design      7th February 2024

Annabel Thomas is Chief Operations Officer of the British Endodontic Society (BES). She discusses her experience of working within the society:

I had actually never heard of the term ‘endodontology’ before starting with the society but, having worked with metallurgists, auctioneers, psychotherapists and psychiatrists before, I thought, why not dentists? After all, each of these professional groups use conferences as one way of learning and networking; manage their organisation by committee; and have the development of their profession as their object. I’m still waiting for my degree in Geography to come in useful – and no, it doesn’t help me find places to hold conferences!

In a way, the society found me. A colleague at the Royal College of Psychiatrists knew Dr Carl Nehammer (BES Past President) and they told me about an opportunity to work with the BES.

As Chief Operations Officer for the BES, my role has changed over the years. It has always involved attending Council Meetings, arranging conferences, budgeting, and managing membership subscriptions but, with the increasing use of technology, I’ve added web technology, social media, and public relations to the role! Additionally, Charity Commission and Company House administration, exhibition planning, and large Congresses have also become part of the responsibilities! Suzanne McLean now supports me part-time with managing memberships and awards.

What I enjoy most about the BES are the members. They are all prepared to give their time to developing the profession, and are supportive and enthusiastic – and they all know how to enjoy themselves!

Outside of work, I play tennis and some golf. I also volunteer in our local library for a few hours a fortnight. Plus, of course, I enjoy socialising!

For more information about the BES, or to join, please visit www.britishendodonticsociety.org.uk