Eco Animal Health founder stands down after 47 years

(Sharecast News) - Pharmaceutical company Eco Animal Health's founder Peter Lawrence stepped down from his role as the group's chairman on Thursday after 47 years.Lawrence, who'd been in the role since he founded Eco back in 1972, will be replaced by former Genus chief executive Richard Wood, who built the animal husbandry outfit from a small company privatised by the government, into a world-leading animal genetics company.The outgoing chairman said: "It has been my pleasure to work with the company and its loyal employees and customers over the past 47 years."We are delighted that Richard has agreed to replace me as chairman, as he has vast industry knowledge and City experience which will allow him to lead the executive team during the company's next stage of growth."Wood added: "ECO Animal Health is an excellent business with a highly committed team. I have been impressed by the achievements of the management and I look forward to working with them to deliver the next stage of ECO Animal Health's growth."As of 0930 GMT, Eco shares had picked up 1.09% to 465p.