Singapore: Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD), a global medical technology company, has appointed Mr Vincent A Forlenza, chief executive officer and president, as the chairman of the board, effective July 1, 2012. Mr Forlenza will succeed Mr Edward J Ludwig, who is retiring from BD.

"Vince has demonstrated strong leadership and strategic vision during his time as CEO, and he has a deep understanding of BD, the medical technology industry and the global healthcare environment. We are confident that he is the right person to chair our board," said Mr Henry P Becton, Jr., BD's lead director. "I also want to thank Ed Ludwig for his many significant contributions to BD and the medical technology industry during his tenure. We wish him and his family all the best."

Mr Forlenza, 59, joined BD in 1980, was named president in 2009 and became chief executive officer in October 2011.