Tag: Medical Devices

Categories
Uncategorized

Empathy: The Heart of Life Sciences

At Strawn Arnold, we have the privilege of working with incredible professionals in the life sciences industry. Many of these individuals are driven by a deep empathy for patients and their families, dedicating their careers to improving lives, advancing healthcare, and reducing suffering.

Empathy is not just a trait – it’s a powerful force that fuels innovation in our field. As we recruit and place these passionate professionals, we are reminded of the profound impact empathy has on our work and on the trailblazing companies we support.

In a time when empathy is needed more than ever, let’s celebrate and cultivate this essential quality. Together, we can create a more compassionate world.

Categories
Uncategorized

Celebrating Black History Month: Honoring the Achievements of Black Professionals in Life Sciences

As we advance in pharmaceuticals, biotech, and medical devices, we celebrate the crucial contributions of Black professionals impacting global health. From groundbreaking research to leadership roles, Black professionals are transforming our industry. Their dedication, expertise, and unique perspectives are advancing healthcare solutions for all. In honor of Black History Month, here are 13 trailblazing heroes shaping the future of healthcare:

1. Dr. Percy Lavon Julian, research chemist who pioneered the synthesis of medicinal compounds from plant sources, forming the foundation for the synthesis of corticosteroids to treat allergic & inflammatory disease.

2. Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, Asst Professor of Immunology & Infectious Diseases at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, who played a pivotal role in the development of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.

3. Dr. Tony Coles, Board Member at Regeneron, & former CEO/Board Chair of Cerevel Therapeutics which developed novel therapies for neurological diseases.

4. Dr. Carla Pugh, Professor of Surgery at Stanford University School of Medicine, a renowned surgeon and medical device innovator revolutionizing surgical training.

5. Dr. Roderic Pettigrew, CEO of EnHealth, a pioneer in cardiovascular MRI.

6. Dr. Hadiyah-Nicole Green, Assoc Professor, Morehouse School of Medicine, medical physicist developing innovative cancer treatments using laser-activated nanoparticles.

7. Dr. Charles Drew, Former Head of the Department of Surgery & Chief of Surgery at Freedmen’s Hospital, who developed improved techniques for blood storage and transfusion, saving countless lives.

8. Otis Boykin, inventor of the improved electrical resistor, crucial for pacemakers and other medical devices.

9. Dr. Vivien Thomas, Former Instructor of Surgery, Johns Hopkins Hospital, who pioneered the Blalock-Thomas-Taussig shunt, a life-saving procedure for “blue baby” syndrome.

10. Kenneth Frazier, Executive Chairman & Former CEO of Merck & Co, known for his leadership in pharmaceuticals and advocacy for social justice.

11. Dr. Patricia Bath, Former Chair of the Ophthalmology Residence Program at UCLA and inventor of the laserphaco probe for cataract surgery and advocate for blindness prevention.

12. Dr. Freda Lewis-Hall, Former Chief Medical Officer at Pfizer, known for her work in patient engagement and health equity.

13. Dr. Emery Brown, Warren M. Zapol Professor of Anesthesia at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, a practicing anesthesiologist and neuroscientist known for his research on the mechanisms of anesthesia.

These are just a few examples of the talented individuals shaping the future of healthcare. Let’s continue to support and uplift the voices and achievements of Black professionals in our industry. Together, we can build a healthier world.

Categories
Uncategorized

Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence at Strawn Arnold

As we conclude our year-long 50th anniversary celebration, we reflect on the incredible journey that has brought us here. Over the past five decades, Strawn Arnold has been at the forefront of life sciences executive search, connecting visionary companies with transformative leaders.

Our success is a testament to the trust and collaboration of our clients, candidates, and dedicated team of search professionals. Together, we’ve navigated the ever-evolving landscape of life sciences, driven by a shared commitment to innovation, integrity, and excellence.

But this milestone is just the beginning. As we look ahead to the next 50 years, we are more excited than ever about the future. We will continue to leverage our deep industry expertise and unwavering dedication to deliver unparalleled results for our clients, candidates, and the patients they serve.

Thank you for being part of our journey. Here’s to the next 50 years!

Categories
Uncategorized

Honoring 50 Years of Excellence

2024 marks a significant milestone for Strawn Arnold! For half a century, we have been dedicated to connecting top talent with leading life sciences organizations, making the leadership placements that drive innovation in the industry.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our incredible clients and candidates who have been part of our journey. Your trust and collaboration have been the foundation of our achievements. Together, we have reached remarkable goals and built enduring relationships.

As we celebrate this golden anniversary, we look forward to continuing our mission of excellence, integrity, industry expertise, and service. Here’s to many more years of successful partnership!

Thank you for being a part of our story.

Categories
Uncategorized

Strawn Arnold at 50 Years: Reflections and Lessons Learned Along the Way

As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Strawn Arnold and thousands of outstanding candidates placed at some of world’s most important companies, it’s a moment to reflect on the journey we’ve taken, the lessons learned, and the impact we’ve made in life sciences. This milestone is not just a testament to our longevity but also to the relationships we’ve built and the expertise we’ve cultivated over the decades.

Aligning Vision with Expertise

Mark Durham, one of our esteemed colleagues, encapsulates the essence of our mission: “As an executive search consultant in the life sciences industry, my role goes beyond filling positions. It’s about aligning vision with expertise to drive meaningful impact in healthcare and science.” This perspective highlights the importance of understanding the nuances of our industry—knowledge of regulatory environments, scientific advancements, and the specific skills needed for leadership are crucial in shaping effective recruitment strategies.

Building trust with both clients and candidates is fundamental. It’s about recognizing leadership potential that aligns with long-term innovation and growth. The satisfaction derived from connecting leaders with opportunities that advance science is what drives us every day.

The Importance of Clear Communication

Managing Director Jeff Ashpitz, with 26 years of experience in executive search, emphasizes a critical lesson: “The most important part of a search assignment is to clearly and crisply define the candidate requirements.” Ensuring alignment among the hiring manager, leadership team, and board is essential for a successful search.

Moreover, maintaining transparent communication throughout the process is vital. “Any bad news needs to be immediately communicated along with a plan to course correct,” Jeff advises. This principle applies equally to candidates; they deserve timely updates, especially if a client decides not to progress their candidacy. Good business practice is rooted in common courtesy, and we strive to uphold this standard.

Customization is Key

Reflecting on his transition into executive search, Partner Barry Duke, with over 30 years in BioPharma shares, “If you have conducted one search, you have conducted one search.” This statement underscores the uniqueness of each search assignment. While job descriptions may seem similar, the critical success factors can vary significantly based on therapeutic areas, company stage, and even the management culture.

Disciplined customization is essential. Detailed discovery work with clients before engaging candidates is a must. As our colleague notes, “It’s too easy to fall into the trap of assumptions.” By asking the right questions and listening closely, we can uncover the nuances that differentiate each search, ultimately leading to more effective outcomes.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate 50 years in life sciences executive search, we are reminded that our work is not just about filling roles; it’s about shaping the future of the life sciences industry. The lessons learned over the past 50 years will continue to guide us as we navigate the evolving landscape of healthcare and science.

We are grateful for the trust placed in us by our clients and candidates alike. Here’s to the next 50 years of impactful connections, innovative leadership, and advancing the frontiers of science together. Thank you for being part of our journey!

Categories
Uncategorized

Talent Implications for 12 Trends in MedTech

by John Groover

The MedTech industry is at the forefront of a technological revolution, driven by innovations that will advance healthcare delivery and patient outcomes. For companies building their senior leadership teams, understanding these trends and their talent implications is crucial for staying competitive and fostering growth.

P4 Technology

P4 technology (Predictive, Preventive, Personalized, and Participatory) represents a revolutionary approach in the MedTech industry. This paradigm shift focuses on predicting health issues before they arise, preventing diseases through proactive measures, personalizing treatments to individual profiles, and encouraging patient participation in their own healthcare. By leveraging advanced data analytics, genomics, 3D printing, and patient engagement tools, P4 technology aims to improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.

Wearables, Biometrics, and Remote Monitoring

The rise of wearable devices and remote monitoring technologies is empowering patients to manage their health proactively. This trend is driving the need for executives who can oversee the development and implementation of these technologies, ensuring they are user-friendly and secure.

Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence

AI and machine learning are revolutionizing MedTech by enabling predictive analytics, automated diagnostics, and personalized treatment plans. These technologies are enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of medical devices, creating a demand for leaders with expertise in AI integration and data science.

Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are transforming the medical device industry by enhancing surgical precision, medical training, rehabilitation, pain management, and telemedicine. As these technologies continue to evolve, they hold the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes and change the way healthcare is delivered.

3D Printing

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is revolutionizing the medical device industry by enabling the creation of highly customized and complex medical devices tailored to individual patient needs. This technology allows for rapid prototyping, reducing both the cost and time required to bring new devices to market.

Telemedicine

Telemedicine has become a cornerstone of modern healthcare, offering remote consultations and treatment options. Leaders with experience in telehealth platforms and digital health strategies are essential to navigate this rapidly growing sector.

Data Security

With the increasing digitization of healthcare, data security has become paramount. Executives with expertise in cybersecurity and data protection are vital to safeguard patient information and maintain trust in digital health solutions.

Health Equity

Addressing health disparities is a critical focus in our industry. Companies are seeking leaders who are committed to promoting health equity through inclusive product design and equitable access to healthcare technologies.

Supply Chain Resilience

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of resilient supply chains. MedTech companies are investing in digitally enabled supply chains to enhance efficiency and adaptability. Leaders with experience in supply chain management and digital transformation are in high demand.

Sustainability

Sustainability is becoming a key consideration in MedTech. Companies are looking for leaders who can drive eco-friendly initiatives, from sustainable product design to green manufacturing processes.

Accelerated M&A

The MedTech industry is experiencing a surge in mergers and acquisitions as companies seek to expand their capabilities and market reach. Executives with experience in M&A and strategic growth are crucial to navigate this complex landscape.

Executive Compensation

In 2024, executive compensation in the MedTech industry is experiencing notable shifts, driven by a dynamic market environment and evolving performance priorities. According to recent surveys, total cash compensation for C-level executives has increased significantly. This trend is largely attributed to higher levels of incentive plan performance and the increasing complexity of the MedTech landscape. Additionally, the tight talent market, rising labor costs, and inflationary pressures are contributing to upward adjustments in executive pay. Companies are also placing greater emphasis on performance-based incentives to attract and retain top talent, ensuring that compensation packages are competitive and aligned with organizational goals.

What Kind of Leadership Will It Take?

The ideal executive for cutting-edge MedTech companies in 2025 is a visionary leader with a robust blend of technical expertise and strategic acumen. They possess a deep understanding of emerging technologies like AR/VR, AI, ML, and 3D printing, and are adept at integrating these innovations into healthcare solutions. Their experience spans digital health trends, including telemedicine and wearables, ensuring they can navigate and leverage these advancements effectively. They are committed to health equity and sustainability, championing initiatives that promote inclusive and eco-friendly practices. Additionally, they excel in managing supply chain resilience and data security, crucial for maintaining operational integrity. With a proven track record in accelerated M&A, they can strategically grow the company while designing competitive compensation packages to attract and retain top talent. Top leaders will combine innovation, strategic vision, and a dedication to improving patient outcomes, making them well-equipped to lead in such a fast-shifting landscape.

The future of MedTech is bright, with numerous opportunities for innovation and growth. However, navigating this evolving terrain requires a strategic approach to executive recruitment. By understanding the key trends and their talent implications companies can position themselves for success in this quickly changing industry. Partnering with the right retained executive search firm is crucial for identifying visionary leaders with the expertise and strategic acumen needed to lead in 2025 and beyond.

Categories
Uncategorized

Spotlight: Celebrating John Groover’s Leadership in Med Tech Recruiting

Meet John Groover, long-time Partner and Leader at Strawn Arnold. John’s medical device career spans over four decades, providing an ideal foundation for his transition into executive retained search.

John began his medtech career in 1982 with Ethicon Endosurgery. “There were 25 of us in their first sales training class, all white, one woman,” John shares. “This one woman trainee ended up running all of Ethicon Endosurgery.” Indeed, John has made diversity a priority, identifying and recruiting the next up-and-coming diversity superstars in medtech. “One of my proudest achievements is placing perhaps the highest-ranking female executive in large cap medtech to be recruited from outside of the organization. We all talk about how important diversity is, but to make an impact with key diversity placements takes more than just talk.”

After five years at J&J, John spent equal time at GE Medical, Edwards Lifesciences, and Sulzer Carbomedics, where he served as President. In 2002, after the sale of Carbomedics, John considered two CEO offers but chose not to relocate his family. He joined Strawn Arnold in 2003 to start their medical device practice. Initially, he placed key executives at Medtronic, J&J, Boston Scientific, and Abbott, before focusing on the venture community. Over the past five years, John has placed dozens of C-level executives with smaller, mostly privately-held medtech entities, primarily as CEOs.

John credits his 20 years in industry leadership roles for his success in retained search. “To perform like a partner for clients, you need to have sat in their chair. Companies succeed or fail based on the successful outcome of the search. You need to take full ownership of that to be successful.”

We at Strawn Arnold celebrate John’s dedication, which has placed us at the forefront of medtech retained search for two decades.

Categories
Uncategorized

Celebrating 50 Years of Strawn Arnold

Celebrating 50 years of excellence, Strawn Arnold has stood as a beacon of leadership in executive search within the life sciences and healthcare industries.

As we honor this milestone, we reflect on the words of our founder, Jerry Arnold: “Over the past 50 years, the central focus of the firm has been to identify outstanding people for our internal needs and those of our many clients. We’ve been successful on both counts. Over this period, our superb staff and partners have identified and placed thousands of exceptional leaders in hundreds of companies across our great country.

“We want to thank our many clients for putting their faith and confidence in us, and for allowing us to help you grow and prosper. We’re looking forward to the next 50 years with both anticipation and excitement. We hope you’ll allow us to be of continued service to your company. Outstanding people are the lifeblood of a growing and prosperous organization. It truly has been a great 50 years for the firm.”

Here’s to half a century of dedication and to the many more years of serving the life sciences industry ahead.

Categories
Uncategorized

Spotlight: Celebrating Jenny Crutchlow’s Unique Skills and Experience

We’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Jenny Crutchlow, Managing Partner, and member of our Executive Committee. Jenny joined our team in 2018 and focuses on the Medical Device and Pharma industries, working on Director, VP, and C-suite roles across functions.

Jenny hails from the great State of Texas and is an alumna of the University of Texas at Austin where she obtained dual degrees in Vocal Performance and the prestigious Plan II Honors liberal arts degree program and was honored with Phi Beta Kappa membership. She also holds a Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance and Pedagogy from Westminster Choir College in Princeton. After a professional performing career on stages in New York and across the United States, Jenny found her way to Executive Search, honing her recruiting skills at large retained search firms focused on the healthcare industry.

Reflecting on her journey, Jenny shares, “Transitioning to executive search from the performing arts has allowed me to leverage my diverse skills and experiences: tenacity, insight, empathy, creativity, process – to find and engage top talent for our clients and to help our candidates shape rewarding careers. I am grateful to our clients and candidates who trust me with their searches. It’s a responsibility I cherish.”

Outside of work, Jenny and her husband Ross enjoy immersing themselves in the arts and spending time with their three children and extended family in the Austin area.

Jenny’s unique blend of skills, experience, and passion makes her an invaluable asset to our team and clients. Join us in celebrating her exceptional contributions to Strawn Arnold!

Categories
Uncategorized

Celebrating 50 Years of Strawn Arnold

In a farmhouse in Austin, Texas, Bill Strawn joined Ken Houtz who had built a robust solo search practice after a storied career with Johnson & Johnson. When Ken retired, Bill sought to expand the firm and added Jerry Arnold to form Strawn Arnold. Over the next several years, biopharma executive David Leech was added to the Partnership, with a continued focus on high-level searches within the pharma sector.

In 1998, Jeff Ashpitz, a BioPharma/MedTech veteran was recruited to lead the emerging biopharma practice. David and Jeff’s addition cemented Strawn Arnold’s mission to provide exceptional retained search services with the expertise of former industry executives rather than a traditional leveraged model.

In 2003, the firm diversified beyond biopharma by adding medtech executive John Groover, who was President of Sulzer Carbomedics. Both Jeff and John went on to serve as Managing Director/President of the firm. Oliver Esman joined in 2007 to head the generic pharma practice, bringing strong CHRO-level industry experience to the firm.

Over the next decade, Strawn Arnold continued to grow with the addition of Chris Schneider (medtech, HIT, services), Mark Durham (biopharma), and Jeff Dodson (biopharma) to the partnership. Partners Barry Duke, Jenny Crutchlow, and Executive Vice President Jim Alexander also joined, all bringing significant industry experience. This expansion ensured Strawn Arnold offered partner-level recruiting expertise and comprehensive industry knowledge across life sciences and healthcare sectors.

Today, Strawn Arnold is recognized as one of the largest and most knowledgeable customer-centric retained search firms in the life sciences and healthcare market. Our Partners and EVPs tailor services to clients, maintaining a strong focus on partner-level results.

Linkedin
Copyright © 2020 Strawn Arnold & Associates, Ltd.
All Rights Reserved.

Design by

Corporate Headquarters

  • 2508 Ashley Worth Blvd #150
    Austin, TX 78738
  • 512-263-1131

Offices

  • New Jersey
  • North Carolina