Bausch + Lomb announced that Brent Saunders has stepped down as CEO, effective October 12, 2026. Thomas J. Appio, chairman of the company's board of directors and CEO of parent company Bausch Health, has been appointed interim CEO. According to the company, Saunders and the board mutually agreed to his departure. No reason was disclosed.

Saunders had served as CEO since 2023, marking his second tenure leading the company. He previously held the position from 2010 to 2013. He also previously served as CEO of Allergan until its acquisition by AbbVie in 2020.

Appio, who became chairman of Bausch + Lomb’s board in August 2026, will continue serving as CEO of Bausch Health. He has held that position since 2022 and previously served in several leadership roles at Bausch + Lomb, including president of its international business.