Foster Wheeler names J. Kent Masters CEO

Foster Wheeler AG said Monday it has tapped The Linde Group executive J. Kent Masters to become its new CEO, effective Oct. 1.

The Swiss company said Masters, 50, will replace interim CEO Umberto della Sala, who will continue with the company in his ongoing roles as president and chief operating officer.

Foster Wheeler provides engineering and construction services to a variety of industries, including oil and gas.

Masters joined Linde in 2006. He was responsible for that company's Americas, Global Business Unit Healthcare and Business Area Merchant and Packaged Gases operating segments.

Foster Wheeler named della Sala, 63, interim CEO last October to replace Robert Flexon, who left the company.

Foster Wheeler also said Monday Raymond J. Milchovich, 61, will continue to serve as the non-executive chairman of its board until Nov. 3. The company expects to announce a succession plan for chairman on that date or before then.