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NEW YORK, Oct 6 (Reuters) Diversified U.S. health care company Johnson&Johnson said on Friday that Robert Darretta, the company's vice chairman and chief financial officer, will retire in early 2007.

The company, whose products range from Band-Aids to arthritis drug Remicade, announced Darretta's retirement in a statement, but did not give a reason for his departure.

Darretta, 60, is one of the most highly respected and experienced senior executives among large health care companies. As CFO since 1997, he has been involved in many deals for the highly acquisitive maker of pharmaceuticals, medical devices and consumer products.

Fred Burke, portfolio manager at Johnson Lemon Asset Management, said Darretta would be a ''very attractive candidate'' to become the new CEO of Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. following that company's dismissal last month of Chief Executive Peter Dolan.

Dolan was fired after a series of missteps during his five years at the drug maker's helm.

''I think he (Darretta) knows the industry. He is an established commodity. He brings credibility and God knows Bristol-Myers needs credibility right now,'' Burke said.

Bristol-Myers spokesman Tony Plohoros declined to comment and Darretta could not be reached for comment.

J&J spokesman Jeff Leebaw declined to comment on Darretta's specific plans, or whether he intends to work for another health care company.

''He has had a full and rewarding career here for 38 years and feels like it's a good time to move on to other opportunities and activities,'' said Leebaw.

Dominic Caruso, J&J's vice president of group finance, has been appointed CFO, effective Jan. 1, the company said.

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