Christopher Braun has been named the new president of Convaid, as company owner/founder Merv Watkins enters semi-retirement.

A news release about the move said Watkins would “remain active in new product development, along with (his son, executive vice president) Nathan Watkins, who will continue in operations management.”

Braun’s appointment to president was effective immediately. Convaid says Braun has more than 15 years’ experience and “his background with both domestic and international markets will be a perfect complement to the professional and well-respected team at Convaid.”

Says Watkins of his successor, “Chris’ business savvy, collaborative leadership and straightforward communications style have garnered him the respect of his team and his peers. He has the knowledge, skills and determination to further position Convaid, Inc., as a global leader and innovator, bringing new energy to expand marketshare during the current difficult business environment and beyond.”

Convaid Sales & Marketing Supervisor Gina Reed says Watkins will continue to “do what he loves the best: the designing of the chairs and new products. Merv is still coming in (to the office) and working on all-new product designs. That’s his background, before it all; he’s an engineer, and he’s a designer.”

Convaid, based in Torrance, Calif., manufactures folding wheelchairs that specialize in providing proper positioning for children and adults with complex needs.