Providing expert eye care requires thoughtful leadership, strong coordination, and a team committed to making every patient experience smooth and reassuring. As Executive Director at Iowa Eye Center, Mandy Recker plays a vital role in guiding daily operations while helping ensure patients receive the highest level of care.
We recently sat down with Mandy to learn more about her career in ophthalmology, what happens behind the scenes at a busy eye care practice, and how her work supports both patients and staff every day.
Q: Can you share a little about your background and what brought you to Iowa Eye Center?
I actually started in eye care working part-time in an optometry office while I was still in school. I quickly realized how much I loved the field and knew I wanted to pursue it further. I worked for an ophthalmologist in a different area, where I earned my Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) and gained great hands-on experience.
To be closer to family, I applied at Iowa Eye Center in 2004 and have continued to grow here ever since. I have earned my Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT), and then my Certified Ophthalmic Executive (COE) when I stepped into the Executive Director role. I’ve been fortunate to grow alongside the practice and appreciate that it’s always supported continuing education and professional development.
Q: What does your role as Executive Director involve on a typical day?
No two days are ever the same, which is one of the things I love the most. My day can include everything from staffing and scheduling, payroll and benefits, compliance, vendor meetings and problem solving. I work closely with our physicians to keep the practice running smoothly.
From time to time, I also jump in and help in the clinic as a technician. Working with patients is where I started and has always been my first passion, so I love staying connected to that side of our practice. It also helps me stay in touch with how things are really working day to day.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your work at Iowa Eye Center?
What I enjoy the most is the people. I’ve worked with many of the same staff and physicians for several years, and those relationships make coming to work enjoyable. We support each other, work hard together, and have fun along the way.
I also love being able to help patients, even if it’s sometimes behind the scenes, and knowing that our work truly makes a difference in their lives. Watching our practice grow over the years and getting to be a part of that journey has been incredibly rewarding!
Q: How do you help make sure the office runs smoothly?
There is a tremendous amount of planning, coordination and compliance work that happens every day. From insurance requirements and building and equipment maintenance to staff training and scheduling, there are many moving parts that must work together to make each visit run smoothly.
A lot of it comes down to communication and staying organized. I try to make sure everyone knows what’s expected and has what they need to do their jobs well. If something isn’t working, we talk about it and figure out a better way together.
I also try to be approachable and available. I want our team to feel comfortable coming to me with questions, concerns, or ideas, because when staff feel supported, it shows in the way they care for our patients.
Q: Even though your role is mostly behind the scenes, how does your work help improve the patient experience?
Even when I’m not working directly with patients, everything I do is still focused on making their visit better. Whether it’s improving scheduling, supporting our staff, or fixing issues before they become a problem, my goal is to make things as smooth and stress-free as possible. When our systems are working well, patients notice. It helps create a more positive experience from the time they walk in the door to the time they leave.
Q: What’s one decision or improvement that has made a meaningful difference for patients?
One of the biggest improvements has been investing in better technology and communication tools. We’ve worked hard to make it easier for patients to get appointment reminders, confirm visits, and reach us when they have questions. Better communication means fewer missed appointments, less confusion, and less stress for patients.
Q: What makes this practice unique in the community?
What really makes Iowa Eye Center special is our people. Many of our doctors and staff have been here for several years, so patients often see familiar faces when they come in. That consistency helps build trust and makes our office feel friendly and welcoming.
We’re also a full-service practice that truly cares for patients of all ages. We provide routine eye exams, medical eye care, and surgical services, all in one pale. We’re the only ophthalmology practice in the area with our own on-site optical shop, which makes things much more convenient for our patients. Being able to have their exam, medical care, and glasses all taken care of in one visit really sets us apart.
Q: How does the practice continue to improve the care and experience it provides to patients?
We’re always looking for ways to do things better. This might mean investing in new technology, improving our processes, or finding ways to make visits more convenient.
We pay close attention to feedback from our patients and staff. If something isn’t working well, we don’t ignore it – we work together to improve it. Our goal is to keep growing and evolving while staying true to the personal care our patients expect.
Q: What’s a small habit or routine that helps you stay organized or focused?
I’m a big list person. I rely on my calendar, daily to-do lists, and planning ahead to stay organized. Before I leave each day, I usually take a few minutes to look at what’s coming up next so I can start the next morning prepared.
Q: If you weren’t working in healthcare, what do you think you’d be doing?
I’d probably still be in some type of leadership role, but maybe in event planning, hospitality, or something creative. I really enjoy planning and organizing events, hosting gatherings, and seeing people have a great time. There’s something very rewarding about bringing people together and creating experiences they enjoy.
Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received, professionally or personally?
You don’t have to have all the answers, but being honest, approachable, and willing to listen goes a long way in building trust.
Q: Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Right now, I’m staying busy by taking courses through Upper Iowa in business management and healthcare administration, which keeps me learning and growing even outside of work. When I’m not studying or working, I love spending time with my family and cheering on my teenage son at his sporting events.
I also enjoy spending time with friends, traveling when I can and finding ways to stay busy during the winter months. Lately, that’s meant getting into small crafts – this year has been jewelry making and creating bag charms. I also love listening to a good suspense novel on audiobook when I’m driving or working on projects at home.
Guiding the practice with purpose
While much of her work happens behind the scenes, its impact is clear in every patient experience. Through leadership, coordination, and a genuine commitment to care, Mandy Recker helps ensure Iowa Eye Center remains a place where patients feel confident, supported, and well cared for.
