Lightwave Logic Appoints New CEO and President

On December 10, 2024, Lightwave Logic, Inc. (NASDAQ: LWLG) announced key changes to its executive team in a recent 8-K filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The company, which focuses on developing photonic devices primarily in the United States, is enhancing its management structure to drive growth and innovation.

Yves LeMaitre, aged 60, has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of Lightwave Logic, effective December 11, 2024. Mr. LeMaitre, who brings over 30 years of leadership experience in various industries including laser, optical communications, and consumer electronics, has previously held significant roles in prominent companies such as Astrobeam.space, Luna Innovations Incorporated (NASDAQ: LUNA), and Lumentum Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: LITE). His strategic advisory roles in the photonics and optical communications markets further enrich his expertise.

In connection with his appointment, Mr. LeMaitre has entered into an employment agreement with Lightwave Logic. His annual base salary will be $420,000, and he is eligible for an annual cash bonus of up to $150,000 based on the company’s performance. Additionally, he will receive a sign-on equity award comprising 50,000 shares of restricted stock and 150,000 stock options, both vesting on June 10, 2025. Mr. LeMaitre will also participate in the company’s benefit plans and be entitled to business expense reimbursements.

Thomas Zelibor, aged 70, has been named President of Lightwave Logic, effective December 11, 2024. Mr. Zelibor, a former Chairman of the Board of the Company, brings a wealth of experience from his tenure as the Chief Executive Officer of the organization and his previous roles in the U.S. Navy where he served in critical senior positions.

Similar to Mr. LeMaitre, Mr. Zelibor has also entered into an employment agreement with Lightwave Logic, entitling him to a base salary of $360,000 per year, with a potential annual cash bonus of up to $75,000. He will receive a sign-on equity award comprising 35,000 shares of restricted stock and 80,000 stock options, both vesting on June 10, 2025. Mr. Zelibor will participate in the company’s benefit programs and be reimbursed for business expenses.

Simultaneously, the Board of Lightwave Logic appointed Ronald Bucchi as the new Chairman of the Board effective December 11, 2024. In addition, James S Marcelli, the current Chief Operating Officer and principal financial officer of the company, has been appointed as the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer.

The reshuffle in the executive team comes as Dr. Michael Lebby, the former Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, resigned from his positions on December 10, 2024.

The full details of the employment agreements for Mr. LeMaitre and Mr. Zelibor can be accessed through Exhibits 10.1 and 10.2 in the Form 8-K filing submitted to the SEC by Lightwave Logic on December 10, 2024.

This article was generated by an automated content engine and was reviewed by a human editor prior to publication. For additional information, read Lightwave Logic’s 8K filing here.

About Lightwave Logic

Lightwave Logic, Inc focuses on the development of photonic devices and electro-optical polymer materials systems for fiber-optic data communications, telecommunications, and optical computing markets in the United States. The company is involved in the designing and synthesizing of organic chromophores for use in its electro-optic polymer systems and photonic device designs.