Gen-Probe Incorporated (Gen-Probe), a in vitro diagnostics company, said its board has elected Carl W. Hull as chief executive officer (CEO), effective May 18, 2009. He also is expected to join the company's board of directors at that time. Hull, currently Gen-Probe's president and chief operating officer, will become president and CEO. He will replace outgoing CEO Henry L. Nordhoff on May 17, 2009.
Nordhoff, who has led Gen-Probe since 1994, will become non-executive chairman upon his re-election to the board by stockholders at the company’s 2009 annual meeting.
“I’m delighted to announce the board’s unanimous election of Carl as Gen-Probe’s next CEO,” Nordhoff said. “He brings unparalleled experience in our field and a deep understanding of molecular diagnostics. His keen intellect and unflagging energy will prove invaluable as he takes the helm of the Company.”
“In nearly 15 years as CEO of Gen-Probe, Hank has presided over tremendous business growth, product innovation and shareholder value creation,” said Armin Kessler, Gen-Probe’s lead independent director and former chief operating officer of Hoffman-La Roche. “The Company has grown from a subsidiary of Chugai, with $61 million in annual revenues, to a public company with a market capitalization exceeding $2 billion and revenues of $473 million last year. Gen-Probe’s customers, employees and shareholders owe him a debt of gratitude, and the board is fortunate to be able to continue benefiting from his guidance and leadership.”