BATESVILLE, Ind. – January 7, 2010 – John J. Greisch, 54, has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of the company, effective January 8, 2010. He succeeds Peter H. Soderberg, who previously announced his intention to retire. Greisch also has been appointed to the company’s Board of Directors.
Greisch brings over 30 years of international operations and financial leadership experience to Hill-Rom. He spent the past seven years at Baxter International, Inc. (NYSE: BAX), a global diversified health care company with expertise in medical devices, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. Most recently, Greisch served as Baxter’s President, International Operations, and before that, as Chief Financial Officer. Greisch also served as President of Baxter’s BioScience division.
“Our Board of Directors is delighted to welcome John Greisch to Hill-Rom,” said Rolf A. Classon, Hill-Rom’s Chairman of the Board. “With his proven leadership and successful track record, John will help us capitalize on Hill-Rom’s market-leading position and global expansion opportunities that will drive future growth. We are confident that John and our strong management team will continue to execute our strategy to the benefit of our customers and our shareholders.”
Commenting on his appointment, Greisch said, “This is an exciting opportunity for me. Hill-Rom has a great brand and strong market positions and I am proud to have the opportunity to lead the company to the next level of success. With the company’s diverse product portfolio and focus on innovation, I am confident that we can continue to bring market-leading innovative solutions to patients and caregivers around the world and across the care continuum.”
As previously announced, Soderberg will continue to advise the company on product and service innovation initiatives on a part-time basis. As planned, in connection with Greisch’s appointment, Soderberg has stepped down from the company’s Board.
“We want to thank Peter for his dynamic and visionary leadership over the past four years, which has led us to spin off our funeral services business and positioned Hill-Rom as the focused and leading medical technology company it is today. We appreciate his willingness to continue his involvement with the company, which will ensure a smooth transition,” concluded Classon.
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