Q&A with Mike and Bernard: Embracing the Next Chapter

Mike: Our patient-centered culture is such an important part of who Edwards is as a company. In what ways will you continue to shape the employee experience at Edwards?

Bernard: We will continue to ensure Edwards is a place where employees feel they can grow and develop their careers. We will attract the best talent who understand and align with our patient-focused mission, and who value diverse backgrounds and experience. This will be key as we continue to foster a culture where open-mindedness, innovation and growth flourish. 

Mike: What are you looking forward to as you step into your new role to lead Edwards?

Bernard: I am excited to continue working alongside our teams at Edwards and with outside stakeholders to further innovation in structural heart and critical care and change the lives of patients around the world. Because we are focused and dedicated in these areas, we will continue to pioneer breakthrough technologies and gather compelling real-world evidence. There are so many patients who are counting on us. 

Bernard: Do you have any advice for rising leaders at Edwards?

Mike: I think being a great listener and lifelong learner are key as a leader. It’s also important to remember that there’s no linear path to success. Dream big and don’t be afraid to fail. For every major advancement in medicine, there were hundreds or thousands that did not succeed. Pushing boundaries and solving problems creatively are a lot more fun if you find meaning in the work you do every day. 

Bernard: What are you most excited for as Edwards begins this new chapter? And what are you most excited about for your upcoming retirement?

Mike: It has truly been my greatest honor to lead Edwards for the past 23 years, and while it is gratifying to reflect on all we have achieved together, I also know that Edwards is just getting started. I am excited for the research that is underway and I am certain the company will continue to build on our legacy of patient impact, innovation and growth. I am so proud of everything our employees have done for patients around the world.

In retirement, I look forward to spending more time with my wife and family, and on activities and causes that are meaningful to us. Though I will no longer be CEO, I look forward to staying involved on the Edwards board and engaging with the company and our teams in a new way.