As the nation's premier integrated pharmacy health care provider, we have a tremendous opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those we serve," Merlo said in a statement. "I look forward to continuing our positive momentum and to further enhancing the long-term value of our company. I've worked directly with Tom for the past 20 years, and I want to thank him for his mentoring and leadership and am confident we will continue to build on his legacy." CVS Caremark noted that the official appointment of Merlo as CEO comes after the transition of day-to-day oversight for CVS/pharmacy retail operations to Mike Bloom, executive vice president of merchandising and supply chain, and Scott Baker, executive vice president of internal operations and real estate, which the company announced last week.