Ecolab Inc. announced that Christophe Beck, succeeded Doug Baker as the company’s chief executive officer effective January 1, 2021, becoming president and chief executive officer.

Beck also has been elected to Ecolab’s board of directors. Baker, currently Ecolab’s chairman and chief executive officer, will retire as chief executive officer but continue as board chairman.

Baker commented on Beck’s promotion, saying, “I am thrilled the board of directors has named Christophe as my successor and believe he is the perfect choice. He has been a great leader and a great partner in advancing and building Ecolab’s st rategy and business.”

Jeffery Ettinger, lead director of Ecolab’s board, thanked Baker for his exceptional performance as CEO over the last 16 years. He commented on the transition, saying, “This announcement follows a well-planned and thoughtful succession process.

Christophe Beck is a proven leader and seasoned business executive, and we are excited about his ability to continue to build Ecolab’s global business and market leadership. He has delivered outstanding performance throughout his career and has been a key player since he joined Ecolab 13 years ago, helping strengthen the company and position it for new and developing growth opportunities. Beck commented, saying, “I am honoured to be given this opportunity, and thank the board for their confidence in me. I also want to thank Doug for his consistent support and guidance during my career at Ecolab, and for the opportunities that helped prepare me for this role. We hold the same vision for Ecolab and share the same commitment to our people, our customers, our communities and our shareholders.”

Ecolab’s Doug Baker and Christophe Beck