It really does seem like yesterday that I sat down to write my first Editor’s Comment for OPI, nervous to comment on an industry that was new to me and to write to readers that I was yet to meet. But now this will be my last. I’m very sad to put it into words, but I am moving on from OP.
So, first of all, I want to say thank you to every reader who has spurred me on over the almost three years that I’ve sat in the Editor’s chair. I’ve tried to write articles that make people think, that reflect the ever-changing nature of the industry and hopefully that provide some support, and I couldn’t have got close to this goal without your comments and ideas. When redesigning the magazine in 2011 you provided me with invaluable feedback, and as OPI moves further into the digital world your continued support has been essential.
Thank you to everyone who has welcomed me at an industry event. I’ve had some incredible times across the world, from Chicago, Las Vegas and Orlando to Dubai, Amsterdam, Budapest and the Cotswolds. Despite being a member of the dreaded press, no door has been barred, and I’ve really got to know the diverse people of the OP world. I’ve made real friends, and I hope you’ll keep in touch.
A final column would be incomplete without a thank you to everyone at OPI. Steve and Janet have made so many things possible for me, and had faith in some of my stranger ideas. The OPI team is full of wonderful people who work hard to support the industry, and I can’t express how much I’ll miss them.
But although this is my last column, judging by the amount of people who return to the warmth and enthusiasm of the OP industry time and again, you never know – I may be back!
