Progress, as Usual 4004

Originally Published MX May/June 2006

COVER STORY

Interview by Steve Halasey

When competing in one of medtech's hottest sectors, it pays to have a strong operating plan, a robust product pipeline, and a reputation for high integrity. Under the leadership of chairman, president, and CEO Daniel J. Starks, St. Jude Medical (St. Paul, MN) boasts all three.

Throughout 2005, as news of major cardiology product recalls dominated national headlines, St. Jude Medical remained a darling of the media. While other companies in its sector faced both public and regulatory scrutiny, St. Jude Medical was recognized by multiple national publications for its admirable management practices. Among its accolades in 2005, the company was named a "most admired company" by Fortune magazine. In addition, Forbes magazine selected St. Jude Medical as the best-managed healthcare equipment and services company, and Medical Device & Diagnostic Industry named the company as one of its medical device manufacturers of the year.