Sarah Frye Heywood, OD, has dedicated 28 years to the optical field, with 14 of those years spent at Walmart. Her journey began in 2006 when she graduated from University of Missouri, St. Louis, College of Optometry. Upon graduation, she joined a multilocation ophthalmology practice based in Springfield, Missouri, where she learned the ins and outs of the field. After practicing for five years, Dr. Frye Heywood sought new opportunities in Colorado.
She met with a Walmart recruiter to explore open independent optometry leases in Colorado. During this conversation, she learned that Walmart was seeking a Colorado-based regional talent specialist with an optometry degree to recruit optometrists and pharmacists in the Western U.S. Intrigued by this opportunity, Dr. Frye Heywood wanted to learn more. Her curiosity and desire for a challenge propelled her through the interview process, and she soon found her place at Walmart.
Dr. Frye Heywood’s connection to Walmart runs deep. She grew up with Walmart, as her father managed the store in her hometown for nearly 30 years and had been with the company for 40 years. This familiarity and alignment with Walmart’s culture and core values of respect, service, excellence and integrity made her transition to the company feel natural.
A CHANGE OF PACE
“When graduating from optometry school, I never imagined I would be doing something other than practicing,” Dr. Frye Heywood says. “But the opportunity to build connections with optometrists and learn more about the business end of the industry was too good to pass up.” She joined Walmart as a regional talent specialist for four years, where she recruited optometrists and pharmacists in 12 states. In 2015, she was promoted to senior manager, where she led a team of six regional talent specialists in the western U.S.
Today, as optical regional senior director in the Western business unit, she manages a team of Vision Center Development Coaches who focus on teaching, training and development for associates in nearly 600 vision centers in 20 states. “It’s been an amazing role to have in the optical business,” she says. “I’m able to influence the journey of the optical business, and what better role to have that focuses on my passion and background as an optometrist while championing patient-centric behaviors and outcomes.”
Dr. Frye Heywood’s career change has not been without its challenges. “Change is uncomfortable and exciting at the same time,” she says. “I attribute my growth to always remaining curious, transparent and authentic.” She credits all her Walmart teams, peers, colleagues and mentors for their continued support.
THE WALMART VISION COMMUNITY
Throughout her career changes, one thing has remained the same: connecting with others and building relationships. “What continues to drive me is the team aspect,” she says. “I care about being a good influence for my team, supporting and developing them in their aspired career paths.” Dr. Frye Heywood has helped countless professionals find the right Vision Center that fits their needs and goals. “It’s nice to know the impact you can have in someone’s navigation of their career,” she says.
She has witnessed the power of the optometry community and encourages those seeking guidance or change in their careers to take advantage of the optometric network. “Who better to learn from than other ODs? It’s such a small world, someone always knows someone,” she says. She highlights the value of leveraging the community to explore all the opportunities available with an optometry degree. This network has been instrumental in helping many optometrists find their forever place to practice adjacent to Walmart’s trusted brand.
Dr. Frye Heywood is grateful for the growth and leadership opportunities she has had to grow and lead. Her passion for her work and the relationships she has built continue to drive her forward. She’s also been able to establish a healthy work-life balance, which she prioritizes as a mother of two young boys. “Walmart has given me the opportunity to be a leader while also being a mom and wife,” she says.
Read more stories from Walmart/Sams Club Community ODs and WO here.
