Bausch + Lomb appoints Thomas J. Appio as interim CEO and signals a raise to 2026 adjusted EBITDA guidance
Bausch + Lomb announced that Thomas J. Appio, who also serves as CEO of parent Bausch Health, will assume the role of interim chief executive officer, replacing Brent Saunders who is leaving by mutual agreement. The board highlighted Appio’s long‑standing ties to the business and expects the companies to lift full‑year 2026 adjusted EBITDA guidance on the back of strong third‑quarter performance. The appointment was disclosed on 12 Oct 2026 while the firms remain in a blackout period ahead of their Q3 results on 28 Oct 2026.
Why it matters
The guidance hike could improve earnings expectations for both Bausch + Lomb (BLCO) and Bausch Health (BHC). The market reacted negatively, with BLCO shares falling 10% to $15.59 and BHC to $5.91, reflecting investor concern over the leadership transition.
Key facts
- 1Thomas J. Appio was appointed interim CEO of Bausch + Lomb, effective immediately. investing.com
- 2Appio will retain his role as CEO of Bausch Health while leading Bausch + Lomb. recorder.ca
- 3Brent Saunders departed Bausch + Lomb by mutual agreement with the board. stocktitan.net
- 4Both companies expect to raise full‑year 2026 adjusted EBITDA guidance based on preliminary third‑quarter results. stocktitan.net
- 5Bausch + Lomb stock fell 10% to $15.59 after the announcement. benzinga.com
- 6Bausch Health stock fell to $5.91 following the news. benzinga.com
Summary written by AlphAI AI Desk from 6 of 6 sources. Not investment advice. Figures are as stated by the linked sources.