Sigma-Aldrich chairman and CEO passes away

Sigma-Aldrich has confirmed that its chairman, president and chief executive officer (CEO) Dr Jai Nagarkatti has died at the age of 63.

Dr Nagarkatti succumbed unexpectedly to a heart attack on November 13th 2010 following a lengthy career with Sigma-Aldrich reaching back to 1976, with his leadership credited with transforming the firm into a life sciences leader.

Following his passing, the company has announced that Rakesh Sachdev will become its new president and CEO, in accordance with its pre-prepared succession plan, while Barrett Toan will take up the position of chairman.

Mr Toan stated on behalf of the organisation that Dr Nagarkatti's loss will be mourned by Sigma-Aldrich, while extending condolences to his family members.

"He was respected by the company's 7,700 employees and will be missed," added the new chairman.

Sigma-Aldrich has subsequently revealed that Kirk Richter has been appointed as interim chief financial officer, temporarily filling the role vacated by Mr Sachdev.