Avanos Medical Appoints Siemens Healthineers' David Pacitti as New CEO

Avanos Medical, a prominent medical device manufacturer, has announced a significant leadership change with the appointment of David Pacitti as its new Chief Executive Officer. Pacitti, who currently serves as the president of Siemens Healthineers' Americas division, will assume his new role at Avanos on April 14, 2025.

Pacitti's Transition and Background

David Pacitti brings a wealth of experience to Avanos Medical, having held key positions in the healthcare industry for several years. His tenure at Siemens Healthineers began in 2015, following a stint at Abbott's vascular unit. Pacitti's diverse background also includes experience outside the healthcare sector, notably as a former offensive lineman for the Miami Dolphins.

In addition to his corporate roles, Pacitti has been actively involved in industry leadership, currently chairing the board of directors of AdvaMed's imaging technology division. This combination of corporate and industry experience positions him well to lead Avanos Medical into its next phase of growth.

Leadership Changes at Avanos and Siemens Healthineers

Pacitti's appointment comes in the wake of Joe Woody's retirement announcement late last year. Woody had led Avanos for seven years, with Michael Greiner serving as interim CEO during the transition period. Greiner, who also holds the positions of Chief Financial Officer and Chief Transformation Officer, will continue to play a crucial role in the company's leadership team.

The move has also prompted changes at Siemens Healthineers. To fill the vacancy left by Pacitti's departure, the company has announced the promotion of John Kowal to the position of Americas president. Kowal, who has been with the company since 2005, most recently served as the Americas president of Siemens Healthineers' Varian division. His promotion underscores Siemens Healthineers' commitment to internal talent development and succession planning.

Implications for Avanos Medical

Pacitti's appointment signals a new chapter for Avanos Medical, a company known for its market-leading products in the medical device sector. In a statement, Pacitti expressed enthusiasm for his new role, saying, "Avanos has a strong portfolio of market-leading products and is committed to delivering breakthrough medical device solutions that improve quality of life. I look forward to building on our success and driving long-term value for our stakeholders."

This leadership change comes at a crucial time for Avanos, as the medical device industry continues to evolve rapidly. Pacitti's experience in both the imaging and vascular sectors of healthcare could prove invaluable as Avanos seeks to expand its product portfolio and market presence.

As the healthcare landscape continues to shift, industry observers will be watching closely to see how Pacitti's leadership shapes Avanos Medical's strategy and performance in the coming years.