Medtronic is consolidating its business into two operating groups – one focused on its heart rhythm and cardiovascular products, the other on everything else.
 
The reorganization comes as part of an initiative dubbed “One Medtronic.” Under the new structure, Chris O’Connell, formerly head of the device giant’s diabetes business, will lead the Spinal and Biologics, Neuromodulation, Diabetes and Surgical Technologies Group. Reporting to O’Connell will be Bob Blankemeyer, head of surgical technologies, Steve La Neve, head of spinal and biologics, Katie Szyman, head of Diabetes and Tom Tefft, head of Neuromodulation.

The company has not yet named someone to lead its Cardiac Rhythm Disease Management, CardioVascular and Physio-Control Group. Reporting to them will be Pat Mackin, head of CRDM, Scott Ward, head of Cardiovascular and Brian Webster, head of Physio-Control.

In addition, Jean-Luc Butel, formerly head of Medtronic International, will head International Operations, while Dr. Rick Kuntz will serve as SVP, chief scientific, clinical and regulatory officer. Kuntz previously headed Neuromodulation.

Meanwhile Merck announced a new organizational structure and leadership in the wake of its absorbtion of Schering-Plough. Merck chief Dick Clark will continue to lead the combined firm, which will have five primary divisions including:

  • Global Human Health, led by Merck’s Kenneth Frazier
  • Animal Health, lead by Schering-Plough’s Raul Kohan
  • Consumer Health Care, led by Schering-Plough’s Stanley Barshay;
  • Merck Research Laboratories, led by Merck’s Peter Kim
  • Merck Manufacturing, led by Merck’s Willie Deese

Post-merger, Merck will also include new franchises focused on women’s health and endocrine as well as mature brands, the firm said. About 40% of Schering-Plough’s senior leaders will assume executive roles with the companied company.