Thomas J. Allison

LAS VEGAS—MacKeyser Holdings LLC, the parent company of American Optical Services, Inc. and Exela Hearing Services, LLC, has appointed experienced turnaround executive, Thomas J. Allison, as CEO, according to a statement issued yesterday by MacKeyser. With over 30 years of experience, Allison has led successful turnarounds for major health care organizations.

He has also served as global head of restructuring of several pre-eminent turnaround firms including Arthur Andersen, Huron Consulting and Mesirow Financial. In addition to the appointment of the new CEO, Terrie Robinson, the current CFO, will take on the role of COO. Allison and Robinson replace Pierre Keyser and former COO, Erica Perreira, both of whom were terminated last week, according to the statement from MacKeyser.

“I look forward to working with the AOS and Exela teams,” said Allison. “The company is facing a number of challenges, but with diligence, teamwork and transparency, I am confident we will be able to build and maximize the company's value for all of its stakeholders including its employees, customers, health care providers, creditors, vendors and owners.”

American Optical Services ranked number 11 for calendar year 2013 among Vision Monday’s Top 50 U.S. Optical Retailers with optical retail, optometry and ophthalmology locations in 14 states, and dedicated audiology and dispensing staff within certain locations.

David Smith, chairman of the board for MacKeyser, said, “We are very fortunate to have Tom on board. His health care experience, impeccable credentials and proven track record are a perfect fit for AOS and Exela.”