Xylem Inc. has created a new position to lead commercial operations across emerging markets around the world. Steven Leung has been appointed to the role of senior vice president and president of emerging markets, based in Shanghai.

“He joins Xylem with a strong operating and leadership background that includes more than two decades of global management and commercial experience,” says Patrick Decker, Xylem president and CEO. “Steve also brings a deep knowledge and understanding of the emerging markets, which are a strategic priority in Xylem’s growth plan.”

The markets under Leung’s leadership include some of Xylem’s fastest-growing areas. They include China, greater Asia, India and the Middle East, Africa and Latina America, along with Australia and New Zealand. He will also serve as a member of the company’s senior leadership team.

Before joining Xylem, Leung served as vice president of global sales for Pentair Valves and Controls. There he was tasked with overseeing the integration of four global vertical sales teams into a single global function. Prior to that he held executive roles at Tyco International, Agilent Technologies and General Electric.

Leung holds undergraduate degrees in management and electronic engineering from Hong Kong Polytechnic. He earned a master’s in business administration from Oklahoma City University.

Xylem, based in Rye Brook, N.Y., serves the public utility, residential, commercial and agricultural markets with a variety of pump and water treatment products. The company has about 12,500 employees worldwide. For more information, visit www.xyleminc.com.