Muru Annamalai.
SINGAPORE—CooperVision, a division of CooperCompanies (Nasdaq:COO), and one of the world’s leading manufacturers of contact lenses, announced the appointment of Muru Annamalai as president, Asia-Pacific, effective today, June 1, 2026. Annamalai brings more than two decades of global leadership experience across the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors, with extensive expertise leading commercial organizations and driving growth across Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and other global markets, the company said. Annamalai replaces Richard Cheshire, who held the position since November of 2025, and Cheshire will support Annamalai’s onboarding through August 2026, CooperVision told VMAIL.
The appointment reinforces CooperVision’s commitment to driving growth within this key strategic region, the announcement noted.
Throughout his career, CooperVision said Annamalai has built and led high-performing teams, expanded business operations across emerging and established markets, and delivered strong commercial results through collaborative leadership and strategic execution. He held a series of senior leadership roles with AbbVie and Abbott, and most recently, he served as a vice president with TCA Venture Group, where he was active in the venture and investment community, supporting innovation and growth initiatives in healthcare.
“Muru is exactly the kind of leader who can accelerate CooperVision’s growth, deepen customer partnerships, and expand access to our portfolio across Asia-Pacific,” said Debbie Olive, chief commercial officer. “He brings a strong understanding of how bold thinking and disciplined commercial execution drive lasting impact. I’m confident he will build on the region’s strong foundation and further advance our leadership.”
“I’ve always been drawn to organizations where purposeful innovation and genuine commitment to patients come together,” said Annamalai. “CooperVision is exactly that, a company that advances vision care in ways that are both clinically meaningful and designed for the way people see and live. I look forward to working as part of the team bringing these solutions to more wearers across the region.”
Annamalai holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University Malaya and a master’s in business administration from Heriot-Watt University in the United Kingdom. Originally from Malaysia, he brings a global perspective shaped by decades of personal and professional experience around the world.
