BD Announces Promotion of President Vince Forlenza; Gains Additional Title of Chief Operating Officer

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Jul 29, 2010, 08:00 ET

FRANKLIN LAKES, N.J., July 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) (NYSE: BDX), a leading global medical technology company, today announced the promotion of Vincent A. Forlenza, President, who assumes the title of Chief Operating Officer in addition to his current title. Mr. Forlenza will continue to report to Edward J. Ludwig, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

"This new title reflects the additional duties that Vince has taken on during the last two years and the key role he continues to play in developing and implementing BD's strategy and vision," said Ed Ludwig. "Today's decision by the Board of Directors is also further recognition of the great leadership and commitment Vince has demonstrated throughout his career at BD."

As President since January 1, 2009, Mr. Forlenza has overseen BD's three business segments (BD Medical, BD Diagnostics and BD Biosciences), International and the Quality function. In January 2010, Mr. Forlenza assumed responsibility for the Integrated Supply Chain and Information Technology functions.

Mr. Forlenza, 57, joined BD in 1980. His BD career has spanned strategic planning, marketing, general management of several business units and executive leadership. His prior roles include service in all three business segments, including service as General Manager, Hypodermic – Europe; President, Becton Dickinson Microbiology Systems; Senior Vice President, Technology, Strategy and Development; and President, BD Biosciences. He was named Executive Vice President in 2006 and was most recently responsible for leading BD Diagnostics.

Mr. Forlenza obtained his bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from Lehigh University and his MBA from Wharton Graduate School, University of Pennsylvania. He serves as chairman of The Valley Hospital Board of Trustees and is a member of the Advisory Board for the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Sciences at Lehigh University.

About BD

BD is a leading global medical technology company that develops, manufactures and sells medical devices, instrument systems and reagents. The Company is dedicated to improving people's health throughout the world. BD is focused on improving drug delivery, enhancing the quality and speed of diagnosing infectious diseases and cancers, and advancing research, discovery and production of new drugs and vaccines. BD's capabilities are instrumental in combating many of the world's most pressing diseases. Founded in 1897 and headquartered in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, BD employs approximately 29,000 associates in more than 50 countries throughout the world. The Company serves healthcare institutions, life science researchers, clinical laboratories, the pharmaceutical industry and the general public. For more information, please visit www.bd.com.