HARTFORD, CT — United Technologies Corp.(UTC) has named Geraud Darnis as president of its Carrier unit. Jonathan W. Ayers resigned as president of Carrier Corp. on Oct. 11. As the announcement was made, UTC President Karl Krapek credited Ayers with making lasting contributions to Carrier, especially in establishing a successful alliance with Toshiba and in developing a talented and experienced management team.

Darnis, formerly president of UTC’s power group, has been chosen by the company to immediately succeed Ayers. “Geraud Darnis has proven himself in tough business environments, and in the wake of recent events, we couldn’t ask for a better leader to succeed Jon,” said Krapek. Darnis has been with UTC since 1983. His successor at UTC Power will be named soon, said the company.