Merck, one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world, has appointed Richard DeLuca Jr. as executive vice president and president of Merck Animal Health. DeLuca previously served as chief financial officer of BD Biosciences and prior to that was president of Wyeth's Fort Dodge Animal Health division.

Officials at Merck said DeLuca "will leverage the division’s strong product portfolio and customer focus to capitalize on new growth opportunities, including expanding the business in emerging markets."

DeLuca, 48, will replace former president of Merck Animal Health Raul Kohan, who decided to retire from the company. Kohan will remain with Merck Animal Health through the end of the year to assist with the transition process.

“This is a wonderful time to join Merck, with its commitment to growing its animal health business,” DeLuca said.  “I look forward to working with the talented managers and employees in ensuring that the division is a best-in-class global animal health leader."