On the Surface

ON THE SURFACE
large population of baby boomers in industrialized nations ages, and as personal wealth expands
around the world, we will collectively spend an increasing portion of our income on health and
well-being, fueling demand for innovative products in areas where STERIS is already strong.
For STERIS, our opportunities begin with executing more effectively the actions we already
have under way. By doing so, we can earn greater market share in our current markets and
improve operating margins. The initiatives of the past year will help us do just that. Looking
ahead, I am confident that successful implementation in our key markets will allow us to
generate stronger top-line growth, and profitability that grows faster than sales.
CONFIDENCE IN THE FUTURE
We have put in place a new management team with the promotions of Timothy Chapman to manage
Healthcare, John Voyzey to run Life Sciences and Michael Tokich to Chief Financial Officer. Tim,
John and Mike have played important roles in shaping and implementing STERIS’s strategy, and
I am confident that their skills and experience will be invaluable to our continued success.
I thank my fellow Board members for their confidence in our leadership team and their
ongoing support and am pleased to welcome Richard C. Breeden and Robert H. Fields, who joined
our Board of Directors in April. They bring a unique perspective that complements the skills and
expertise of the Board. The counsel and diverse insights of the entire Board will be invaluable as
we work together to drive sustainable profitable growth and increase STERIS’s market value.
I also thank Les Vinney, former CEO and director, and Steve Hardis, former director, both of
whom retired last year, for their service over the past several years.
After a little more than six months as your CEO, I am impressed by the opportunities in front
of STERIS, grateful for the trust and support of our Customers, and excited about our ability to
take full advantage of opportunities in the markets we pursue. With the continued dedication of
our talented people, we intend to give Customers more reasons than ever to turn to us for
solutions, and to reward our shareholders for investing in STERIS.
I look forward to reporting on our progress and thank you for your continued confidence
in STERIS.
Walter M Rosebrough
President and Chief Executive Officer
June 2008
PG 5