Beckman Coulter Inc. announced that Scott Garrett has resigned as Chairman, President, and CEO, effective September 6, 2010. Garrett will continue as a full-time non-executive employee of the company through January 15, 2011, focusing his attention on aiding the Board of Directors during this transition.

The Board appointed J. Robert Hurley interim President and CEO, effective September 6, 2010, and will initiate a search for a successor. Hurley, who has served as the company's senior vice president, human resources, and chairman of Beckman Coulter Japan, joined the company in 2005, and most recently led the integration of the Olympus acquisition. Prior to joining Beckman Coulter, he was an executive with Baxter International, leading its operations in Asia for more than 8 years.

Glenn S. Schafer, lead independent director, was appointed by the Board to the post of non-executive Chairman.

Garrett said, "Over the past eight years, five of them as CEO, I've had the pleasure and privilege to lead the company through many significant improvements. Today, the company continues making good progress, even in a very challenging environment. I am proud of all the employees at Beckman Coulter and believe the company is positioned to achieve its long term potential."

Schafer said, "The Board appreciates Scott's contributions to the company's success. We are pleased that Bob Hurley has agreed to step in on an interim basis. We remain confident in and supportive of the company's management team and are committed to our strategy of leadership in biomedical testing and superior customer service. Our initiatives to address previously disclosed quality issues are proceeding, and we are continuing to invest in opportunities to build shareholder value and further strengthen our ability to meet the needs of our customers."