8-KLeadership ChangesExhibits & Filings

ECOLAB INC. 8-K Report, Executive Changes (Aug 7, 2009)

Filed August 7, 2009For Securities:ECL

Summary

This Form 8-K filing by Ecolab Inc. (ECL) reports a key change in its Board of Directors. Effective August 7, 2009, the company announced the appointment of C. Scott O’Hara as a new director. This appointment increases the size of the Board from 10 to 11 members and fills a newly created position. Mr. O’Hara brings significant executive experience from H.J. Heinz Company, where he currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of Heinz North America, and previously held global leadership roles. His appointment is a strategic move by Ecolab to leverage his extensive operational and management background. He has also been assigned to serve on the Board's Finance and Audit Committees, indicating an immediate contribution to key oversight functions.

Key Highlights

  • 1Ecolab Inc. appointed C. Scott O’Hara to its Board of Directors.
  • 2The Board size was increased from 10 to 11 members.
  • 3Mr. O’Hara's appointment is effective August 7, 2009.
  • 4He brings executive experience from H.J. Heinz Company, including his current role as President and CEO of Heinz North America.
  • 5Mr. O’Hara has prior global management experience with The Gillette Company.
  • 6He will serve as a Class III director with a term ending May 6, 2010.
  • 7Mr. O’Hara has been appointed to serve on the Board's Finance and Audit Committees.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary purpose of this 8-K filing is to report the appointment of a new director, C. Scott O’Hara, to Ecolab's Board of Directors and the resulting increase in the Board's size.

C. Scott O’Hara is a seasoned executive with extensive experience. He is currently the President and Chief Executive Officer of Heinz North America at H.J. Heinz Company, and previously held various global executive positions within Heinz and The Gillette Company.

Mr. O’Hara has been appointed to serve on Ecolab's Finance and Audit Committees, indicating his immediate involvement in critical financial oversight and governance matters.

The filing indicates that the Board size was increased to accommodate the appointment of Mr. O'Hara, likely to strengthen the Board's expertise and oversight capabilities with his particular skillset and experience.