#USA #Houston #Texas State Optical #John D. Marvin #TSO Inc.

John D. Marvin Steps Down as CEO of TSO, Inc.

Houston, TX - May 1, 2025 - In a significant announcement, John D. Marvin, the President and CEO of TSO, Inc., declared his impending resignation effective June 30, 2025. This decision comes after an impressive 25-year journey marked by exceptional growth and evolution within Texas State Optical (TSO).

Having taken on the role of CEO in 2000, Marvin was a pivotal figure in steering TSO towards optometrist ownership back in 2001. His visionary leadership spurred the expansion of TSO to over 125 locations, establishing it as the tenth largest optical retail chain across the United States. Marvin's tenure witnessed remarkable financial growth; the average revenue per TSO location has more than doubled since he took charge, navigating a landscape increasingly dominated by private equity and consolidation.

However, Marvin's decision was not made lightly. He revealed that a pivotal divergence in strategic vision between himself and the current shareholders prompted his move to resign. Marvin stated, "The current focus on preserving a network of independent practices no longer coexists with the scalable growth and consumer-value agenda that I was originally brought in to foster." He believes that the time is ripe for a leadership transition that aligns more closely with the shareholders’ vision.

In his parting message, Marvin expressed heartfelt gratitude for the time he spent with the TSO community, emphasizing the rewarding nature of his role as one of the highlights of his professional life. He expressed pride in having led the company with integrity and transparency, underlining his commitment to cultivating lasting value within the TSO brand, which remains collectively owned by the organization's doctors.

As the TSO community prepares for this pivotal leadership transition, the Board of Directors is set to announce interim leadership arrangements and a detailed succession plan shortly. Marvin has affirmed his commitment to facilitating a smooth transition, ensuring that the integrity and mission of TSO are upheld during this period of change.

Marvin’s departure marks the end of an era for TSO and presents new opportunities as the company looks to the future. The legacy of his leadership will undoubtedly influence the strategic direction of TSO for years to come.

As the organization gears up for this change, attention will soon turn to potential candidates who can embrace the current vision while continuing to drive growth and community engagement at TSO.

Media Contact:
Yanely Rehkopf
Director of Marketing and Communications
TSO, Inc.
5858 Westheimer Rd, Suite 710
Houston, TX 77057
Email: [email protected]