Fort Worth, Texas (December 10, 2018) – Alcon, the global leader in eye care and a division of Novartis (NYSE: NVS) (“Novartis”), today announced the appointment of Roger Lopez as Region President Alcon Japan, effective January 1, 2019. Mr. Lopez succeeds Jim Murphy who is retiring from the company after a distinguished, nearly 25-year career with Alcon.

Mr. Lopez is a seasoned leader who has worked across multiple geographies, including Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA), Asia, and the U.S. He will report to Ian Bell, President International, and join the Alcon Executive Leadership Team (ELT).

“Japan is critical to Alcon’s bright future, and Jim has been a tremendously effective leader fixing the foundation and turning the business around,” said Mr. Bell. “We’re fortunate to have Roger and his vast experience of successfully driving business strategy and execution to seamlessly take on this important role. I know Roger will build upon Jim’s success and that he and the team will continue to cultivate excellent customer relationships, bolster the winning internal mindset, and drive business growth.”  

Mr. Lopez, who began his career at Novartis in 1994 when he joined CIBA Vision Spain, for the past two years has served as Area VP of Emerging Markets with EMEA. Under his leadership, the business has delivered outstanding growth while also improving regional customer relationships. Prior to his current role, Mr. Lopez held senior leadership positions within Asia, including Vice President Asia Cluster Head and Vice President South Asia & Pacific. Previously, Mr. Lopez served as GM Alcon UK & Ireland.

“I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Jim for all the many impactful contributions he has made to Alcon,” said David Endicott, Alcon CEO. “Jim has always achieved all that we asked of him and more. His tenure leading the Japan region is no exception and we will benefit from the rich legacy he leaves with Alcon.”

Mr. Murphy, who earlier this year had expressed his intention to retire, plans to spend more time with his growing family, which is primarily located in the Boston, Massachusetts area. Both he and Mr. Lopez will closely work together over the next several weeks to transition Japan leadership.