Stryker Announces Leadership Changes in Digital and Robotics Division

Stryker, a leading medical technology company, has made significant changes to its digital and robotics leadership team, reflecting the growing importance of these technologies in the medical device industry.

Mike Carlin Appointed to Lead Digital and Robotics Unit

Stryker has named Mike Carlin as the new President of digital, robotics and enabling technologies. Carlin, who previously served as the President of customer solutions at Stryker, will take over the leadership of this crucial segment as the company experiences substantial growth in robotic surgeries.

Spencer Stiles, Stryker's group president of orthopaedics, announced Carlin's appointment in a LinkedIn post. Carlin expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, "I am thrilled to build upon the strong foundation laid by Robert Cohen."

Carlin's extensive experience with Stryker, dating back to 2002, includes roles in the craniomaxillofacial business, trauma & extremities, and surgical divisions. This diverse background within the company positions him well to lead the digital and robotics unit during a period of rapid technological advancement.

Robotics: A Growing Focus for Stryker

The leadership change comes at a time when robotics represents an increasingly important business segment for Stryker. In March, the company launched its Mako 4 surgical robot, a versatile platform capable of performing total hip, total knee, partial knee, and spine procedures.

The adoption of robotic-assisted surgery has contributed significantly to Stryker's performance. Jason Beach, vice president of investor relations, noted in a May earnings call that the technology has led to "healthy" procedure volumes in the first quarter of the year.

Robert Cohen Transitions to New Innovation Role

As part of the leadership reshuffle, Robert Cohen, the former leader of the digital and robotics division, will transition to the role of vice president of innovation and technology for orthopaedics. Cohen, who joined Stryker following the company's acquisition of robotics company Mako in 2013, had been leading the digital, robotics and enabling technologies business since 2020.

In his LinkedIn post, Cohen explained the rationale behind his move: "The time is right in my career journey to make the decision to move into a new role. Work and life balance now matters more." In his new position, Cohen will continue to focus on innovation, musculoskeletal strategy, and artificial intelligence, leveraging his extensive experience in the field.

These strategic leadership changes underscore Stryker's commitment to advancing its digital and robotic capabilities, positioning the company to capitalize on the growing demand for advanced surgical technologies in the healthcare industry.