Hospira has named William G. Dempsey to its board of directors. The addition of Dempsey expands Hospira's board to 11 directors, nine of whom are independent.

Dempsey brings strong executive management and diverse global experience from leadership positions held in the healthcare industry. He spent more than two decades at Abbott Laboratories, most recently serving as executive vice president, global pharmaceuticals.

"Bill understands how to successfully grow a large, multinational healthcare business," said Christopher B. Begley, executive chairman. "His impressive track record of results-oriented leadership and operational experience in the healthcare field makes him an excellent fit for the Hospira board."