Medtronic, the world’s largest medical device company, is set to lose its Chief Technology and Innovation Officer, Ken Washington, who announced his retirement, effective November 14th. Washington, who joined Medtronic in 2023, expressed a "bittersweet moment" as he looks forward to spending more time with his family, while also reflecting on his impactful tenure.
Key Takeaways
- Ken Washington, Medtronic’s first Chief Technology and Innovation Officer, is retiring on November 14th.
- Washington cited a desire to spend more time with his family as the reason for his departure.
- He highlighted accomplishments in AI, digital technologies, robotics, and sustainability during his tenure.
- Medtronic has initiated its succession planning process to find a replacement.
- Washington’s departure follows a series of other high-level executive changes at the company.
Washington’s Impact and Future Plans
During his time at Medtronic, Washington was a significant proponent of advancing artificial intelligence and digital technologies within the company. He also played a role in restructuring the Technology Development Centers. In his LinkedIn announcement, Washington expressed pride in the work accomplished, stating, "I’m confident these efforts will continue to thrive under continued strong leadership." He extended gratitude to his colleagues for their trust and collaboration.
Prior to his role at Medtronic, Washington held prominent positions, including VP and GM of consumer robotics at Amazon and chief technology officer at Ford Motor Co. His departure marks a significant change in Medtronic’s innovation leadership.
Medtronic’s Succession Planning and Recent Executive Changes
Medtronic has confirmed that it has activated its succession planning process to identify a new Chief Technology Officer. Washington’s exit is the latest in a string of high-level departures from the medical device giant. Recently, Enterprise Operations EVP Greg Smith announced his retirement, effective December 2nd. Prior to that, EVP and Cardiovascular Portfolio President Sean Salmon left the company in September. SVP and Chief Communications Officer Torod Neptune also announced his departure in August, shortly after EVP, General Counsel and Secretary Ivan Fong retired in July. In May, former SVP, Global Controller and Chief Accounting Officer Jennifer Kirk departed to lead Exubrion Therapeutics.
These executive shifts occur as Medtronic continues to engage with activist investor Elliott Investment Management. The company has expanded its board and established special board committees focused on growth opportunities and operational performance.
Sources
Founder Dinis Guarda
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