John A. DeFord, Ph.D.

Becton Dickinson (NYSE:BDX) said last Friday it is lifting former C.R. Bard science, technology and clinical affairs senior VP John DeFord to the role of chief technology officer and exec VP.

Since acquiring Bard in a $24 billion deal that closed last December, DeFord has served as BD interventional segment R&D SVP, the Franklin Lakes, N.J.-based company said.

DeFord originally joined Bard as science & tech VP in 2004, and had previously served life sciences managing director for venture capital fund Early Stage Partners and as prez & CEO of Cook Inc, which is now known as Cook Medical. He also currently serves on NuVasive‘s (NSDQ:NUVA) board of directors, BD said.

“John is a recognized leader with more than 25 years of experience in the medical device industry, with expertise overseeing innovative R&D and technology-based initiatives that have made significant effects on saving and improving lives for patients around the world. He will drive organizational culture, capabilities, products and technology-enabled services to further strengthen the BD innovation funnel, while advancing the world of health through new innovations and solutions for our customers and patients,” prez Tom Polen said in a press release.