Bausch and Lomb’s presidents ‘to have a significant impact’

Eye health firm Bausch & Lomb has announced the appointment of two “veterans” of the health industry to head up its regional businesses, with the firm predicting both will have a key impact on the future success of the company.

John H Brown has been named corporate vice-president and president of Europe, Middle East and Africa, while David N Edwards has been named corporate vice-president and president of the Asia Pacific business.

Mr Brown replaces Alan H Farnsworth in the role, following his appointment to the position of senior vice-president for customer service and information technology and chief information officer.

Mr Edwards has replaced Dipankar Bhattacharjee who is leaving Bausch & Lomb for personal reasons.

Gerald M Ostrov, chairman and chief executive officer, Bausch & Lomb, said: “The company’s success is dependent on strong connections between our business units and our regions.

“By stimulating and strengthening these connections, our regional presidents play a central role in optimizing our product portfolio, providing region and country-specific insights that fuel innovation.”

He added that Messrs Brown and Edwards are seasoned executives with a range of experiences in Europe and Asia, with both bringing a global perspective to their roles.

Mr Ostrov predicted both members of staff would make a large impact on the success of the company.

Earlier in 2008, Bausch & Lomb announced the appointment of Joseph Barr as head of its clinical and medical professional services activities.