Imperial Brands CEO Turnaround Boosts Stock with Billion-Dollar Buyback
Imperial Brands plc has seen a significant turnaround in its stock performance following the appointment of Lukas Paravicini as the new CEO, succeeding Stefan Bomhard. The company's shares have recovered from their May lows and have been boosted by a substantial share buyback program.
Paravicini, who previously served as the company's CFO since May 2021, took over as CEO on October 1, 2025. In his first move, he announced a billion-dollar share buyback program, demonstrating his confidence in the company's future prospects. This initiative, worth £1.45 billion for the 2026 fiscal year, has contributed to a significant jump in Imperial Brands' stock price.
The company's market shares are showing promising growth in key regions such as the USA, Germany, and Australia. This growth is offsetting losses experienced in Spain and the UK. Imperial Brands expects low single-digit growth in tobacco and next-generation product sales, with adjusted operating profit projected to increase in the mid-single-digit range. Paravicini aims to accelerate growth in next-generation products, targeting double-digit growth over the next five years.
Under the leadership of Lukas Paravicini, Imperial Brands plc is demonstrating a renewed confidence and commitment to shareholder value. With a focus on growth in key markets and next-generation products, the company's stock recovery and market share gains signal a positive outlook for the future.
