Bausch + Lomb has appointed Thomas Appio as interim CEO following Brent Saunders' departure, bringing an experienced company executive into the role as the eye health business prepares for its next phase of growth.
Global eye health company Bausch + Lomb has announced a leadership transition, appointing Thomas J. Appio as interim Chief Executive Officer, effective October 12, 2026.
The appointment follows a mutual agreement between outgoing CEO Brent Saunders and the company’s board of directors regarding his departure.
Appio, who became Chairman of Bausch + Lomb’s Board in August 2026, will continue serving as CEO of parent company Bausch Health while taking on his new responsibilities.
An Experienced Leader Returns to the Business
Appio brings extensive international leadership experience and a longstanding association with Bausch + Lomb.
He joined the company in 2010 as Managing Director for China and later became President of Bausch + Lomb International in 2016.
Before the company’s initial public offering in 2022, he held several senior positions across its international operations.
Appio has also served as CEO of Bausch Health since 2022, overseeing the group’s broader pharmaceutical portfolio.
His familiarity with Bausch + Lomb’s operations, products and global markets provides continuity as the company enters this leadership transition.
Commenting on his appointment, Appio said he embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm, emphasising the strength of the company’s people, product portfolio and commitment to patients.
Saunders Concludes His Second Tenure
Brent Saunders returned to lead Bausch + Lomb in 2023, having previously served as CEO between 2010 and 2013.
A prominent executive in the pharmaceutical industry, Saunders also previously led Allergan, including during its acquisition by AbbVie in 2020.
Reflecting on his latest tenure, Saunders highlighted the progress made in strengthening Bausch + Lomb’s strategy, product pipeline and future opportunities.
The company did not provide further details regarding the circumstances of his departure beyond confirming the mutual agreement with its board.
Business Momentum Accompanies the Transition
The leadership announcement coincided with a preliminary update on financial performance.
Bausch + Lomb and Bausch Health said they expect to increase their full-year 2026 adjusted EBITDA guidance, excluding acquired research and development expenses, based on preliminary third-quarter results.
Further information is expected when the companies publish their quarterly results on October 28.
For Appio, the immediate focus will be guiding Bausch + Lomb while maintaining continuity across its global eye health operations.
His appointment places an executive with direct knowledge of the organisation at the centre of its next leadership chapter.
Sources: Bausch + Lomb and Bausch Health, official announcement, October 12, 2026; Reuters, October 12, 2026; Bausch + Lomb Executive Leadership Profile
