NORTHBROOK, Ill. - Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL), the safety testing and certification organization, has named Keith E. Williams as the not-for-profit's new president and chief executive officer. UL also elected Williams to the company's board of trustees. His appointment will begin in mid-May.

"Keith comes to UL as a seasoned executive," said Fred Marcon, UL chairman. "His proven success record in leading technology-driven global businesses, combined with his strong technical orientation and financial expertise makes him an excellent leader for UL. His technical savvy and engineering background are an excellent fit with UL and will help ensure that UL remains the world's leader in safety testing, certification, and public safety."

"I was drawn to UL's public safety mission and the opportunity to take its global business to the next level, " said Williams. "I look forward to joining the organization and working with its dedicated staff, its customers, and regulatory and consumer communities. I am confident that together we will advance UL's public safety mission and take the company to unprecedented growth levels."