Edwards Lifesciences Announces Succession Plans for Retiring CEO, Michael A. Mussallem

December 8, 2022—Edwards Lifesciences Corporation announced that their current Chairman and CEO, Michael A. Mussallem, will retire in May 2023 as part of the company’s annual meeting of the stockholders. At that time, he will stand for election as Nonexecutive Chairman of Edwards’ Board of Directors.

“It has been a special honor and privilege to lead our team at Edwards Lifesciences for more than 20 years in their immense contributions to helping and advancing care for millions of patients around the world,” commented Mr. Mussallem in the company’s announcement. “I am particularly proud of the ‘patients-first’ culture that is embodied by our employees and the commitment to innovation and excellence that our global teams demonstrate. Our success to date is a testament to our talented executive leadership and passionate global team, and we are well positioned for an even brighter future.”

The company announced that Mr. Mussallem will be succeeded as CEO by Bernard Zovighian, currently the Corporate Vice President and General Manager for Edwards’ transcatheter mitral and tricuspid therapies (TMTT) business. Mr. Zovighian will serve as President of Edwards Lifesciences effective January 1 until he becomes CEO in May 2023.

“I am excited to have the opportunity to partner with our people around the world to build upon Edwards’ patient-focused culture and innovation strategy,” said Mr. Zovighian in the company’s announcement. “I look forward to working closely with the Board, Mike, and Edwards’ Executive Leadership Team on a smooth transition and further advancing the great work of our global teams.”

Edwards also appointed additional members of the company’s executive leadership team to new roles, effective January 1, as part of the planned CEO succession. Larry Wood, Corporate Vice President and General Manager of Edwards’ transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) business, will become Corporate Vice President and Group President, TAVR and surgical structural heart, where he will have responsibility for both businesses. Daveen Chopra, who has served since 2018 as Corporate Vice President and General Manager of Edwards’ surgical structural heart business, will lead TMTT.

“Our Board is confident in the Edwards Executive Leadership Team, which has unmatched experience and a commitment to patient-focused medical innovations globally. We have worked cohesively for many years, collaborating on Edwards’ strategy, and I am confident that under Bernard's experienced and passionate leadership, the company will continue its legacy of patient impact, innovation, and growth,” said Mr. Mussallem.