Vincent Forlenza, president and chief operating officer of Becton Dickinson & Co., will succeed Edward Ludwig as CEO beginning Oct. 1.

“This change in leadership is the result of the board’s focus on succession planning that began in 2008 as part of our corporate governance practices,” said Henry P. Becton, Jr., BD’s lead director. “The selection of an excellent internal candidate to replace Ed demonstrates the strength of executive leadership development at BD.”

Ludwig, who has been with the company since 1979, was named president in 1999, CEO in 2000, and chairman in 2002. Becton Dickinson more than doubled its annual revenue during Ludwig’s tenure as CEO, more than tripled its net income and nearly tripled its market capitalization, according to data released by the firm. In addition, thousands of employees have taken part in executive training programs, which Ludwig created in his first year as CEO. He will continue to serve as executive chairman of the board through June 2012.

“I want to thank Ed for the extraordinary leadership he has provided during his time as CEO,” Becton said. “We are pleased that Ed will continue to provide his insight and counsel as Vince transitions to his new role.”

Forlenza joined BD in 1980. Since that time, he has had a hand in strategic planning, marketing, general management of several business units and executive leadership, and he has serviced each of BD’s business segments, as well as in strategy development and overseas roles. He was named executive vice president in 2006 and president in 2009; he assumed the additional role of chief operating officer in July 2010.

“Over the last 30 years, Vince has distinguished himself as a leader. He has an outstanding track record running businesses, international operations, technology and business development,” Ludwig said. “His broad array of achievements has prepared and eminently qualified him to lead BD to the next level.”

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