Author: The Business Worldwide

The health and fitness industry has seen remarkable growth over the past decade, driven by increasing awareness of the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and the rising prevalence of chronic diseases. This industry encompasses a wide range of services, including personal training, group fitness classes, wellness coaching, and nutritional counselling. The integration of technology, such as fitness apps and wearable devices, has further expanded the reach and effectiveness of fitness programs, making it easier for individuals to track their progress and stay motivated. As people continue to prioritize their health, the demand for diverse and innovative fitness solutions is expected to grow.

Having skilled resources in the health and fitness industry is crucial for several reasons. First, qualified professionals ensure that clients receive safe and effective guidance tailored to their individual needs and goals. This is particularly important for individuals with specific health conditions or those new to exercise, as improper training can lead to injuries or exacerbate existing issues. Skilled fitness professionals are also adept at motivating clients, helping them stay committed to their fitness journeys and achieve long-term success. Moreover, they stay updated with the latest research and trends, ensuring that their practices are evidence-based and aligned with current standards.

In addition to enhancing client outcomes, skilled resources contribute to the overall credibility and reputation of the health and fitness industry. As the industry grows, so does the competition, making it essential for fitness businesses to differentiate themselves through high-quality services. Employing knowledgeable and certified professionals not only attracts clients but also fosters trust and loyalty. Furthermore, skilled fitness professionals play a vital role in educating the public about the importance of physical activity and healthy living, thereby promoting a culture of wellness that benefits society as a whole.

FitEduCoach, founded by Shraddha Sheth, is addressing the critical issue of skilled resources in the health and fitness industry by providing accessible and reputable certification programs tailored for fitness trainers, club managers, and sales professionals. By partnering with leading national and international brands, FitEduCoach ensures that their training and certification programs are of the highest quality, equipping professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their roles. Additionally, FitEduCoach offers job placement services, bridging the gap between qualified professionals and fitness businesses in need of skilled staff. This comprehensive approach not only enhances the competency of individuals in the industry but also contributes to the overall credibility and effectiveness of fitness services.

The Making of an Entrepreneur

Shraddha Sheth is a prominent figure in the fitness industry today. She is considered a Visionary Health & Fitness leader with 23+ years of experience driving transformative growth and innovation in India. From a young age, she was passionate about making a meaningful contribution to her country. Her academic journey in Life Sciences and Nutrition instilled a deep understanding of the interconnectedness between physical health and overall well-being.

Before establishing her own company, Shraddha served as a key member of the pioneering team that brought Gold’s Gym to India. She played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s fitness landscape and has been instrumental in pioneering innovative fitness programs and revolutionizing business strategies within the gym industry. Over the past two decades, she has empowered millions of individuals to achieve their health goals and lead more fulfilling lives.

Shraddha’s unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional experiences, nurturing talent, and fostering a culture of innovation has been instrumental in Gold’s Gym India’s meteoric rise as the world’s fastest-growing Master franchise. Her commitment to excellence and her ability to adapt to the evolving needs of the industry have positioned her as a key influencer in promoting a healthier lifestyle across the country.
“I’m a firm believer in the power of people, process, and product to drive sustainable success in the fitness industry. My experience has taught me that by investing in our teams, refining our operations, and offering innovative solutions, we can create a lasting impact on individuals and communities. Recognizing the industry’s growing need for skilled professionals, I took the leap into entrepreneurship to address this critical challenge and contribute to the continued growth of the fitness sector,” says Shraddha.

From Comfort Zone to Growth Zone

At Gold’s Gym, Shraddha continued to make significant contributions to the fitness industry through her leadership. One of her notable achievements includes the development of a successful weight loss program that has helped numerous clients achieve their fitness goals. Under her guidance, Gold’s Gym India expanded its presence to 90 cities across India, Bangladesh, and Nepal, ensuring top-notch facilities and effective training programs.

Her efforts in strategy planning, sales, operations, marketing, and fitness education have not only enhanced the brand’s reputation but also promoted a culture of wellness and healthy living.
After 2 decades with Gold’s Gym, Shraddha realized that her workplace had become a comfort zone and she felt a strong urge to move out of the comfort zone and transition into a growth zone.

She went on to start NextGen Pathshala denoted: Next Generation Learning place. The tagline is Seekho India with the purpose of coaching the youth of India to make them more confident, dynamic and trustworthy. In just 100 days, they built FitEduCoach, a comprehensive platform for fitness education, coaching, certification, and job placement, from the ground up! The innovative hybrid model combines online theory with hands-on training in performance centres across India, empowering individuals to excel in their careers and contribute to the industry’s growth.

At FitEduCoach, their mission to empower the next generation of fitness professionals is well underway. They’ve already conducted 10 webinars, attracting over 1,000 unique students eager to upskill. By delivering engaging content led by industry experts, Shraddha and her team have successfully cultivated a habit of learning from the comfort of home or the gym. Four of their webinars incorporated dynamic workouts, inspiring students to explore new skill sets and push their boundaries. Their eLearning platform having a library will go Live in November 2024.

Leading the Organization

As the Founder of FitEduCoach, Shraddha’s role encompasses a diverse array of tasks and responsibilities that are crucial to the success and growth of the organization. One of her primary duties is defining the vision for the company and ensuring that the team is aligned and motivated to drive it forward. This involves setting clear, measurable objectives and targets that guide their efforts and keep them focused on their mission.

In addition to vision-setting, Shraddha is deeply involved in developing comprehensive strategies to achieve FitEduCoach’s goals. This strategic planning is not a one-time activity but a continuous process that they revisit on a weekly basis to adapt to new challenges and opportunities. Making informed decisions is another critical aspect of her role, ensuring that every choice made aligns with FitEduCoach’s overall strategy and strengthens its collaborations.

“One of the most fulfilling parts of my daily routine is witnessing the evolution and optimization of our tools and platforms. By continuously refining our technology, we ensure that our students have access to the best possible learning experience and the most up-to-date resources. This commitment to innovation and excellence is what drives me and the entire FitEduCoach team to push boundaries and strive for greater heights every day,” shares Shraddha.
Value-added services

FitEduCoach’s key services include:

Online Fitness Education: One can access a vast library of expert-led courses covering various fitness topics, from anatomy and physiology to nutrition and exercise science.
Hands-On Training: Learners gain practical experience at FitEduCoach’s state-of-the-art performance centres across India, honing their skills under the guidance of experienced trainers.
Certification Programs: Learners earn industry-recognized certifications that validate their expertise and open doors to new career opportunities.

Job Placement Assistance: One can benefit from FitEduCoach’s dedicated job placement services, which connect them with top fitness facilities and organizations.
Communication Language: Hinglish, easy-to-understand fundamentals.
Call with an Expert: It helps solve students’ queries Fitness Educators will be available over a Video call before enrolments, during, and post-graduation too.

“Each educator who is contributing skilled manpower back to the industry has their unique way of operating their education firms. We are the few amongst the first ones to adapt knowledge transfer methodologies from countries like USA, UK, South Africa, Canada, Australia, UAE, Saudi etc,” says Shraddha.

Levelling Up Fitness Education with Cutting-Edge Innovations
FitEduCoach is committed to providing the most accessible and effective fitness education experience. That’s why they’ve incorporated innovative technology to enhance their platform and make learning more convenient and engaging.

Key innovations include:

AI-Powered Language Translation: FitEduCoach’s platform utilizes AI to translate courses into the top 4 most spoken languages in India, ensuring that learners from diverse backgrounds can benefit from their offerings.

Seamless Admissions: They’ve optimized their automation processes to streamline the admissions process, making it easy for students to enrol in their courses.

Virtual Learning Library: Students enrolled in long-format courses gain free access to FitEduCoach’s virtual learning library, providing them with a wealth of additional resources.
Rigorous Quality Control: They maintain strict quality control standards, ensuring that only qualified instructors and courses are featured on the platform.

Progressive Learning Pathways: FitEduCoach’s education standards mirror traditional academic institutions, allowing students to progress through their programs in a structured and logical manner. The student will have to fulfil eligibility criteria before admission is extended.

Core Values and Beliefs

FitEduCoach’s purpose and mission are deeply rooted in the commitment to upskill and provide job placements to 10,000 students over the next three years. This inspiring goal drives every action and decision Shraddha and her team make, ensuring that they are consistently working towards creating opportunities for the youth. By focusing on skill development and job placement, they aim to bridge the gap between education and employment, empowering students to achieve their career aspirations and contribute meaningfully to society.

The company’s values are centered around the quality of teaching and a comprehensive curriculum. FitEduCoach believes that a robust educational framework is essential for building confidence and competence in the students. Whether they choose to work in India or abroad, the curriculum is designed to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen fields. By maintaining high standards in education, they ensure that their students are well-prepared to face the challenges of the global job market.

FitEduCoach holds a steadfast belief in being relentless in its support for the youth of India. “Our commitment to handholding students through their educational journey reflects our dedication to their success. We strive to provide them with a financially secure future by offering continuous guidance and support. This belief in nurturing and empowering the next generation is at the core of our mission, as we work tirelessly to create a brighter and more prosperous future for all,” says Shraddha.

Promoting Innovative Ideas

FitEduCoach believes that innovation is the cornerstone of a company’s success, especially in the dynamic fitness industry. By integrating cutting-edge technology with comprehensive training programs, FitEduCoach ensures that its students are not only well-prepared but also ahead of industry trends. The company emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adaptation, offering lifetime access to course materials and expert-led instruction. This approach not only enhances the skills of fitness professionals but also fosters a culture of innovation and excellence.

FitEduCoach’s commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education and placement support reflects its innovative strategy to empower individuals and drive the future of the fitness industry.
“Innovative ideas are the lifeblood of a company, driving growth, competitiveness, and long-term success,” says Shraddha.

Staying innovative also helps the company to understand the current trends in the industry and adapt quickly. FitEduCoach stays updated with industry trends through a multifaceted approach. They actively engage with industry experts and thought leaders to gain insights into emerging trends and best practices. By participating in industry conferences, workshops, and webinars, they ensure that their curriculum and training programs are aligned with the latest advancements in the fitness industry.

Additionally, FitEduCoach leverages technology to monitor market trends and gather data on evolving customer preferences and needs. This proactive approach allows them to continuously refine their offerings and maintain a competitive edge in the market. Their commitment to staying current ensures that their students receive the most relevant and up-to-date education, preparing them for success in a rapidly changing industry.

Collaborating with Industry Experts

Shraddha feels that organizations need to rely on team processes rather than individual heroics to achieve success. While individual brilliance can certainly make a significant impact, the complex challenges faced by modern businesses often require a collaborative and coordinated effort. FitEduCoach’s engagement and collaboration with industry experts is a cornerstone of their strategy to stay ahead in the fitness education sector. They collaborate with renowned fitness professionals, nutritionists, and wellness coaches to develop and refine their curriculum. These experts bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience, ensuring that the training programs are both comprehensive and up-to-date with the latest industry standards.
Additionally, FitEduCoach organizes regular guest lectures, workshops, and webinars where these experts share their insights and latest research findings. This not only enriches the learning experience for students but also keeps the faculty informed about new developments and innovative practices in the fitness industry. By fostering a strong network of industry connections, FitEduCoach ensures that their students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for real-world challenges.

“Moreover, FitEduCoach encourages ongoing mentorship and networking opportunities between students and industry leaders. This continuous engagement helps students build valuable professional relationships and gain firsthand knowledge of industry trends and career opportunities. Through these initiatives, FitEduCoach maintains a dynamic and forward-thinking educational environment that supports the success of its students and the broader fitness community,” concludes Shraddha.

CallTower is a leading provider of unified communications as a service (UCaaS) and contact center as a service (CCaaS) solutions. Its mission is to deliver award-winning, business-class communication technologies that enhance efficiency and productivity for individual users and organizations alike. It offers a comprehensive suite of services that include Microsoft Teams, Cisco Collaboration, Zoom, CT Cloud Solutions, Five9, Webex Contact Center, Solgari Contact Center for MS Teams, and CT Cloud Contact Center.

Leading the Market

What sets CallTower apart in the market is its commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and seamless integration. It is constantly exploring new technologies and solutions to ensure its clients have access to the most advanced and reliable communication tools available. Its strategic partnerships with industry leaders like Microsoft, Cisco, and Zoom enable CallTower to offer a diverse range of solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of its clients.
Another key differentiator is its customer-centric approach. CallTower takes the time to understand its client’s unique challenges and objectives and works closely with them to develop customized solutions that drive success. Its dedicated support teams are always available to provide assistance and ensure a smooth implementation and ongoing management of its services.
“Furthermore, our ability to integrate various communication platforms into a unified system sets us apart. We understand that businesses require flexible and scalable solutions that can adapt to their evolving needs. Our integration capabilities allow us to create cohesive communication environments that enhance collaboration and streamline operations,” says Suzanne Walker, Director of Channel Sales at CallTower.

Unwavering Support

CallTower supports its clients in achieving reliable, stable, and scalable communication solutions through a combination of advanced technology, strategic partnerships, and exceptional customer service. Its approach is centered on understanding its client’s unique needs and delivering tailored solutions that drive success.

CallTower leverages cutting-edge technologies from industry leaders like Microsoft, Cisco, and Zoom to provide robust and reliable communication platforms. These platforms are designed to deliver high performance, scalability, and seamless integration, ensuring that the clients can rely on them for their critical communication needs.

CallTower’s strategic partnerships enable it to offer a diverse range of solutions that can be customized to meet the specific requirements of our clients. Whether it’s integrating Microsoft Teams with existing systems or deploying a comprehensive CCaaS solution, it works closely with its clients to develop and implement solutions that align with their business objectives.
Exceptional customer service is a cornerstone of CallTower’s support strategy. Its dedicated support teams are available 24/7 to assist clients with any issues or questions they may have. It provides comprehensive training and onboarding to ensure that its clients can fully leverage the capabilities of its solutions. Additionally, CallTower’s proactive monitoring and maintenance services help to identify and address potential issues before they impact the clients’ operations.

Scalability is a key consideration in CallTower’s solution design. “We understand that businesses need communication tools that can grow with them. Our solutions are built to be flexible and scalable, allowing clients to easily expand their capabilities as their needs evolve. This ensures that our clients can continue to rely on our solutions as they grow and adapt to new challenges,” shares Suzanne.

The Experienced Leader

Suzanne’s professional journey has been a dynamic and rewarding experience, marked by a continuous pursuit of growth and excellence. She began her career in the telecommunications industry initially working in sales and account management roles. Her early experiences in this sector exposed her to the transformative power of communication technologies and their impact on business efficiency and collaboration.

Suzanne was particularly inspired by the potential of unified communications (UC) to revolutionize the way organizations operate. The ability to integrate various communication tools into a cohesive system that enhances productivity and connectivity was a concept that deeply resonated with her. This inspiration led her to specialize in UC solutions, and she eventually joined CallTower, where she could leverage her expertise to drive innovation and deliver exceptional value to clients.

“Throughout my career, I have been motivated by the challenge of staying ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. The technological advancements and the ever-changing needs of businesses have kept me engaged and passionate about my work. At CallTower, I have had the privilege of working with a talented team and leading our efforts in the Mid-Atlantic & Southeast markets, where we continue to set new benchmarks in the UCaaS and CCaaS landscape,” reflects Suzanne.

Guiding Principle on Professional Journey

Suzanne’s working style can be described as collaborative, strategic, and customer-centric. She believes in fostering a collaborative environment where every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute their best ideas. Collaboration is the cornerstone of innovation, and by encouraging open communication and teamwork, we can achieve greater success collectively, feels Suzanne.
Strategic thinking is another key aspect of her working style. Suzanne approaches challenges with a long-term perspective, always considering how our actions today will impact our goals in the future. This mindset allows her to make informed decisions that align with CallTower’s overall business objectives and drive sustainable growth.

Customer-centricity is at the heart of everything Suzanne does. Understanding the unique needs and pain points of clients is essential to delivering solutions that truly make a difference. By putting the customers first and consistently exceeding their expectations, she helps build lasting relationships and foster loyalty.
The aims and ideals that guide Suzanne in her professional journey include integrity, innovation, and continuous improvement. Integrity is the foundation of trust, and she strives to uphold the highest ethical standards in all her interactions. “Lastly, continuous improvement is a principle that ensures we never become complacent. There is always room for growth, and I encourage my team to embrace a mindset of learning and development,” she shares.

Challenges and Opportunities in Business Communication Landscape

The current business communication landscape is characterized by rapid technological advancements and shifting work environments. Suzanne remarks that one of the primary challenges is the need for organizations to adapt to the increasing demand for remote and hybrid work solutions. As more businesses embrace flexible work arrangements, there is a growing need for robust and reliable communication tools that can support remote collaboration and ensure business continuity.
Another challenge is the complexity of managing multiple communication platforms and ensuring seamless integration. Organizations often struggle with disparate systems that hinder productivity and create inefficiencies. The challenge, observes Suzanne, lies in unifying these platforms into a cohesive and user-friendly system that enhances communication and collaboration.

Data security and privacy concerns also pose significant challenges. Per Suzanne, with the rise of cyber threats and stringent data protection regulations, businesses must ensure that their communication solutions are secure and compliant. This requires continuous monitoring, regular updates, and the implementation of robust security measures.

Despite these challenges, there are numerous opportunities in the business communication landscape. The increasing adoption of AI and automation technologies presents exciting possibilities for enhancing communication and improving customer experiences. AI-powered tools can streamline workflows, provide valuable insights, and automate routine tasks, allowing businesses to focus on more strategic initiatives.
“The demand for unified communication solutions is also driving innovation in the industry. As businesses seek to enhance their communication capabilities, there is a growing opportunity to develop and deliver advanced UCaaS and CCaaS solutions that meet their evolving needs. Companies that can offer flexible, scalable, and integrated solutions will be well-positioned to capitalize on this demand,” shares Suzanne.
Staying Ahead

CallTower stays ahead of technological advancements in the communication industry through a proactive approach to innovation, strategic partnerships, and continuous learning. It is committed to being at the forefront of the industry, and this commitment drives its efforts to stay informed and responsive to emerging trends and technologies.

Innovation is a core value at CallTower. The company invests in research and development to explore new technologies and solutions that can enhance its offerings. “Our dedicated innovation team is constantly evaluating new tools and platforms to ensure that we can provide our clients with the most advanced and effective communication solutions available,” shares Suzanne.
Strategic partnerships play a crucial role in CallTower’s ability to stay ahead. It collaborates with industry leaders like Microsoft, Cisco, and Zoom to leverage their expertise and access cutting-edge technologies. These partnerships enable it to integrate the latest advancements into its solutions and offer its clients the best-in-class communication tools.

Continuous learning is another key aspect of CallTower’s strategy. It encourages its team members to stay informed about industry developments through ongoing training, certifications, and participation in industry events. This ensures that the team is equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to implement and support the latest technologies.
“We also actively engage with our clients to understand their evolving needs and gather feedback on our solutions. This feedback loop allows us to identify areas for improvement and stay aligned with the changing demands of the market. By being responsive to our clients’ needs and proactive in our approach to innovation, we can maintain our position as a leader in the communication industry,” says Suzanne.
A Collaborative Approach to Success

Collaboration is a fundamental element of CallTower’s business strategy. It underpins the company’s approach to innovation, customer service, and internal operations. It believes that effective collaboration leads to better outcomes, and strives to foster a collaborative environment both within the organization and with the clients and partners.
“Internally, collaboration is key to driving innovation and delivering high-quality solutions. Our teams work closely across departments to share insights, brainstorm ideas, and develop new solutions. This cross-functional collaboration ensures that we leverage diverse perspectives and expertise, leading to more innovative and effective communication tools.
With our clients, collaboration is essential to understanding their unique needs and delivering tailored solutions. We engage in regular consultations with our clients to gather insights into their challenges and objectives. This collaborative approach allows us to co-create solutions that align with their business goals and deliver maximum value,” sums up Suzanne.

Innovation drives progress, and I am committed to staying at the forefront of technological advancements to offer cutting-edge solutions.

The medical devices industry plays a pivotal role in modern healthcare, significantly impacting patient outcomes and overall health system efficiency. This industry encompasses a wide range of products, from simple bandages to complex imaging systems and life-saving implants. Medical devices are crucial for diagnosing, monitoring, and treating various health conditions, thereby improving the quality of life for millions of people worldwide.

Moreover, the industry is a major driver of innovation, with substantial investments in research and development leading to continuous advancements in medical technology. These innovations not only enhance patient care but also contribute to reducing healthcare costs by enabling early diagnosis and less invasive treatments. As the global population ages and the prevalence of chronic diseases rises, the demand for advanced medical devices is expected to grow, further underscoring the industry’s importance.

As a leading name in the industry, Kashif Ikram, Vice President Europe, MicroPort has had an unconventional medical device career because he did not stay in one specific therapy area. He has worked with orthopedic implants and instruments, monitors that measure the amount of blood your heart is pumping, radiation therapy for cancer patients, replacement heart valves, Stents for the brain & heart, and even skin-harvesting products. This diversity of experience has often given him an edge over others when building a business strategy or go-to-market approach.

Stumbling upon His Niche

As a youngster in school, Kashif was drawn towards biology as well as design and technology. He split his time between the biology laboratory (learning about respiration) and the workshop (learning to form metal and plastic materials). Back then, he did not know how to combine his two passions. That all changed when he discovered the medical device industry via the Orthopaedic business.

“These people were talking my language, specialty plastics and alloy implants combined with human anatomy, infection control, and fluid dynamics. After a stint launching Hip and knee replacement, I surprised my colleagues by moving into the Intensive care and Anesthesiology world,” reminisces Kashif.

Here he helped introduce to the world minimally invasive monitoring of heart performance. After that, he switched again and launched a heart valve made from a metal frame and bovine tissue. Before he became too comfortable in that world he upped the challenge again, this time moving into the keyhole surgery world where he helped launch many technologies that moved surgery from open to minimally invasive procedures. From hand-held laparoscopic instruments, it was a natural progression to robotic-assisted surgery for Prostate, Kidney, Gynecological, Lung, and Abdominal cancers and even hernia repair.

“Introducing surgical robotics is very challenging, not just from a surgeon acceptance point of view but also from a regulatory, safety, and cost perspective. Microport® ®´s Medbot Toumai® is the 4th Medical Robot I have not commercialized,” shares Kashif.

A Leading Medical Device Company

Since its foundation in 1998, the MicroPort® team has been driven by its mission that patients everywhere should enjoy better and longer lives. This motivates everyone in the company to push boundaries and accelerate access to life-changing medical devices and technologies for all. Every innovation the company creates, like a heart stent, surgical robot, or orthopedic implant is designed with healthcare professionals’ needs in mind and a focus on improving the patient´s healthcare outcomes.

“We are committed to mastering the details that truly make a difference in patient care worldwide and the company attracts like-minded people from all around the world.  We are proud of the fact that every 5 seconds, a patient somewhere in the world benefits from a Microport Medical product,” says Kashif.

Microport operates in multiple international markets across multiple fields, including orthopedics, cardiovascular intervention, cardiac rhythm management, electro-physiology, endovascular, and peripheral vascular intervention, among others.  Team Microport believes that it is the little details that make life special. That’s why they are relentless in perfecting every detail of their medical technologies.

The Underlying Challenges and Hidden Opportunities

Multiple challenges face the medical device industry in its relentless pursuit to finding solutions to the healthcare challenges. AI and digital are touching every aspect of our lives and healthcare is also embracing the advantages this can bring. For example, logistics and planning AI can help better schedules or timetables, drive efficiency, and remove costs. Video and voice analyzing software can write up patient notes and disseminate them to the clinicians who need to see them. AI can help clinicians see lesions and diseases not easily picked up by the human eye and AI can even read thousands of pages of clinical publications to find the right diagnosis and potential treatment.

“We are seeing a revolution today and surgical robotics is on the cutting edge of this revolution,” says Kashif.

Another serious challenge that he feels deeply about is democratizing healthcare across the world. How do we bring the best technology and optimal healthcare practice to every corner of the globe? A key measure of how developed we are as a human society is how we help the sickest. poorest and weakest in our world. He joined Microport as it is clearly a leader in bringing technology to all who may need it.

Another key challenge, shares Kashif, is how we pay for our healthcare. As new technologies are introduced, we must ensure that with increasing costs we significantly increase outcomes and efficiencies. This is known as value-based healthcare, where the monetized value is greater than the increasing cost.

Speaking about opportunities, Kashif feels that surgical robots are very under-penetrated in the market and dominated by just a few companies. There is a great opportunity to spread the technology to more hospitals and help more patients. In addition, there are more procedures where robotics can add value through automation or accuracy. And of course, AI will have a huge impact on improving patient outcomes, reducing the burden on healthcare workers making things more efficient, and reducing costs.

“Future transformation in medical care will be driven by data, information, and its processing. Surgical robotics` evolution is often benchmarked against the passenger airline industry or the self-driving car industry,” he says.

At the Forefront of Technological Advancements

As Microport celebrates its 26th anniversary this year, the team reflects on a remarkable journey marked by innovation, perseverance, and global impact. Over the past 26 years, they have continually pushed boundaries and advanced access to life-changing technologies. With a steadfast commitment to research and development, a diverse and dedicated global team, and an expanding global presence, they see a promising path forward. One that addresses the most challenging healthcare issues, while allowing them to explore ways to impact more lives every second so that patients everywhere can continue living better and longer lives.

Microport’s conglomerate of associated companies shares resources and expertise while retaining independence and agility to innovate in close partnership with healthcare professionals and medical communities. They relentlessly pursue excellence and are uncompromising where quality is concerned. In all aspects of their businesses, they are passionate in their pursuit of the highest standards and the implementation of a continuous improvement strategy.

“We demonstrate imagination and a pioneering spirit that makes Microport a leading innovator in our industry. Our insights and knowledge are quickly and efficiently applied to maximize physician and patient benefits. Take for example our stable of Medical and surgical robots, nobody has a portfolio as broad as ours working in diagnostics, General, and Orthopedic surgery,” asserts Kashif.

Focusing on Research, Development, and Innovation

Microport deeply understands that its products are directly related to patients’ lives, and even the slightest deviation could cause a significant impact. Because of this, the teams at Microport work relentlessly to master every detail of medical technologies so that patients everywhere can enjoy better and longer lives. That’s their purpose, and it’s how they remain true to their beliefs and committed to the core values they uphold. These principles are essential to the relationships they build with their partners and customers. And it’s evident in every detail of their workday.

In the medical device industry, innovation is essential, and for innovation to thrive, a leader has to develop the right culture, look at the flexibility of how and where their people work, remove barriers to efficiency embrace digitalization, and have inclusion that shows care. Volatility has increased in all markets and innovation and creativity are often the best way to ride out the waves, or even become the disruptor in one’s space. And the more volatility the quicker the leader must change.

Leaders drive this momentum, through transparency in information, a lot of communication that builds trust, and they create clear goals and aspirations. They must invest in people and keep them engaged, and challenged even. It´s important to focus their team on being solution-focused and not become entrenched in the problems.

“The secret sauce though, let’s keep this just between us, is empowerment. When you hire the right people and empower them to be creative, that is when you see the magic happen. Because people often know what needs to be done or know how to solve major challenges, they simply need to be given permission, provided with resources, and released into safe environment. It is so motivating for people when they realize, they did it themselves, it inspires confidence that drives further creativity. Happy, successful creative people are a lightning rod for others and therefore force multipliers to your business. If people have left your team and gone on to do great things, I suggest you do some self-reflection on your leadership style,” advises Kashif.

Encouraging Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity and inclusion are subjects Kashif is very passionate about and spends a lot of time reflecting on. In healthcare, it’s a must that one brings all the talent to the table and hears everyone’s thoughts and ideas. Kashif has a 4-point model: Think Inclusion, Hire Diversity, Develop Culture, and Retain Diverse Talent.

Elaborating on this model, he says, you must first think about inclusion, foster a culture, educate leaders, and remove fear from the organization. Uncover unconscious bias, become mindful. Then hire diverse talent and find ways to attract them to your organization, ensure your selection process encourages diverse candidates. Ensure recruiters send you a variety of candidates. However, when you have them on board ensure their needs are being met and their diversity celebrated. Ensure this talent is learning and developing, integrating seamlessly into your organization. Enable learning and diversity to spread through your organization. Finally, once you have high high-functioning diverse team, retain it. Track attrition and segment the data you get in employee surveys on diverse parameters. This can be very insightful and lead to breakthroughs previously not tapped.

“However,” adds Kashif, “you must set up the right metrics for your company’s inclusion drive and hold leaders accountable. At the end of the day, you cannot improve what you do not measure!”

A Message for Aspiring Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders

Kashif would like to suggest everyone to join the medical device industry. Along with his friend Silke Riemer, he has launched a Podcast called “Our MedTech Lives” available on YouTube.com. In this podcast veterans of the industry come and talk about their careers, the challenges they overcame, and the successes they fondly remember. It’s a lot of fun and very inspiring. This podcast started from work his friends and he did for St Gallen University in Switzerland introducing the Medical Device industry to their students.

“The medical device industry is highly rewarding and challenges you every day, however, think about this, no matter what job you do, logistics, accounting, R&D, or sales at the end of the day you are helping somebody’s child to be pain-free, somebody´s parent to live longer and somebody´s sibling to be cured of their cancer. What could be more motivating or rewarding than that? It’s what gets us out of bed in the morning,” concludes Kashif.

“Microport is a global medical devices company, founded on the belief that every person has the right to high-quality medical treatments and to live better and longer lives.”

Exafluence is a leading data and analytics company that empowers organizations to stay ahead in their industries by leveraging modern digital technologies. Founded in 2015, Exafluence specializes in IoT, Big Data, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence to provide actionable insights and solve complex business problems. Their flagship platform, ExfDigital, offers a low-code/no-code solution that accelerates digital transformation and data-driven decision-making. 

A Global Solution Provider

With a global presence and a team of over 200 professionals, Exafluence serves various sectors including Healthcare, Financial Services, and Consumer Products. It is a uniquely positioned platform-led solution provider employing a tremendously talented group of people. It uses open-source and cloud-native technologies to build its solutions. We have integrated AI across the life cycle of data management and analytics.

“Everything we do is driven by one thing: How do we solve real problems? How do we enable our customers to provide better data for better outcomes and how can we help them be more automated and efficient? We do this without the need to code (no code tools) and with the help of artificial intelligence,” emphasizes President & CTO, Joerg Guenther.

Exafluence’s expansive domain expertise coupled with the tech talent is what Joerg considers the secret sauce for the company’s affluent presence. Many of its associates have 20+ years of experience in delivering projects across financial services and the investment management life cycle.

The Leader’s Rise

Born and raised in Switzerland, Joerg accidentally landed in IT and in Financial Services. While he was pursuing his economics degree, he was offered a part-time job at Zuercher Kantonal Bank(ZKB) as a database developer. Having had no previous experience in IT, he negotiated a three-month period during which he could come up to speed. He was immediately hooked by the capabilities of developing software and solving real problems.

Joerg joined ZKB full-time and became a software developer and later was promoted to project manager and vice president. After 9 years with the company, he launched a startup with some of his co-workers and spent several years in IT consulting working for the big Swiss banks, the Swiss Funds Association but also Zurich Financial Services.

In 2001, Joerg moved to the US and joined KPMG Consulting as Manager of Financial Services and later Julius Baer in New York as Head of IT / CIO initially for wealth management and later on for asset management. In 2012, he joined Northern Trust in Chicago and headed up Hedge Fund Services Technology and Derivatives Technology. In 2016, he had the opportunity to relocate back to Europe (London) as Chief Technology Officer of EMEA and was also appointed Chief Information Officer for all Corporate & Institutional Services.

In 2019, Joerg switched to a similar role as global CIO Securities Services for Citigroup in London with a larger organization and a more global footprint(2’500 staff and consultants in 34 countries) . When COVID-19 hit a few months later,it made travel impossible and his integration and assimilation with the team and its culture very challenging.
“We made it work despite the lack of travel and despite the ability to meet people in person. It wouldn’t have been possible without the help of my team who supported me tremendously during that time. I never felt isolated,” he recalls.

. After a brief stint as a CTO for a German insurance service provider, he decided to pursue a very different kind of role with Exafluence starting in July this year.

In an Exciting Role

In his latest role at Exafluence, Joerg is entrusted to help grow the brand and especially expand the products and services across financial services. As he has a unique background combining 13 years of buy-side asset management experience with 11 years of service provider experience, he can add a different perspective to Exafluence’s target market.

“Solving problems for a buy-side asset manager or wealth manager is very different than solving problems for a service provider yet there are also common aspects we need to be aware of. First of all, understanding the domain and the perspective of the prospective client is of paramount importance. If I cannot put myself in the client’s shoes, I cannot solve the problem effectively and I cannot help make a difference. We do a lot of knowledge sharing and we pair young tech talent with experienced domain experts. This approach has been very rewarding for all parties involved,” explains Joerg.

This mindset is also shaping very much how he is focussing on product strategy and architecture. “Everything we do must have a purpose. Better data for better outcomes. What we build is aiming to help streamline the data lifecycle whilst providing tools that allow users to be much more efficient and automated in providing this data for their outcomes. That is really it in a nutshell,” he shares.

The People’s Leader

Joerg is a big believer in people and making people strong. So, believing in people’s abilities and delegating ownership is key to allowing staff to grow and also to stay motivated. It is the only way, he feels, to truly scale an organization but it is also extremely rewarding. He enjoys coaching and mentoring people and seeing them become stronger and more independent. Joerg tends to think about the big picture and communicate the vision and strategy so everyone can buy in but he equally enjoys getting his hands dirty and write some code

He has always been a big believer in understanding why we do things and what we solve for.  In order for a team to thrive it is critical to establish psychological safety. In other words, creating an environment where everyone has a voice and everyone can safely raise concerns and talk about mistakes without the fear of retribution.

“When we talk about D&I the I stands for inclusion and it means having a stake in the decision making and the future of the company. If these guard rails are put in place the results are absolutely amazing. I have built some relationships that have transcended a single job as connecting with people is more than just working together,” he asserts.

Allying with Technology

Technology, says Joerg, will continuously evolve, especially now that AI is growing quickly. The key is to stay hungry for change and to embrace it. “New technologies are not a threat but an opportunity. So, the willingness to learn continuously and to experiment with new things is a very important and differentiating quality,” he observes.

Exafluence encourages staff to use AI throughout their daily work and provides access to these tools. It encourages teams to learn and provide new ideas. The important thing is to apply the technology to real problems and provide real solutions. Otherwise, technology has no value.
“I have been very positively impressed by the speed at which new technologies are embraced. Our data scientists applied new LLMs within days and figured out what model configuration works best for particular use cases,” says Joerg.

AI, the Challenges and the Future

Joerg agrees that AI will have a massive impact on the industry. AI will disrupt how we work and many people will have to retrain in order to stay relevant. It will be challenging to keep up with the incredible pace of innovation. However, he is concerned about the socio-economic impact this all might have but he also sees it as a mandate to make AI accessible and available to all people.

Drawing parallel, he says, “It is a little bit like when the Internet started. For many people, it was not available. Over time we overcame that hurdle largely (There are still people that do not have access to this technology) also because smartphones became attainable. Now we face an even more differentiating innovation revolution. By using Open Source for our solutions and by providing our solutions in the Open Source space we want to allow everyone to adopt the technology. We will see how this evolves but ever the eternal optimist I am looking forward to the journey.”

Explaining the challenges, Joerg opines that successful AI needs comprehensive data models and clean and consistent data. Most companies do not have the data in the shape it needs to be. Many legacy applications and disparate data silos are preventing companies from being successful. They struggle to consolidate and integrate the data. In order to deliver a holistic comprehensive data model, domain expertise and knowledge are absolutely critical and many firms do not have enough of these skillsets. The model is needed to explain and organize the data properly. Lastly, many firms do not have the data integration and data mastering tools they need to efficiently produce the data in an automated fashion.

“If you try to run before you walk, AI will miserably fail and not produce the desired results. So, the homework has to be done and done right,” says Joerg.

This is where Exafluence comes in with its tools and solutions. It provides an investment data model that is technology-independent for clients that do not have such a model in place. It can naturally also work with existing models if they are available. Exafluence’s tools integrate and catalog the data, map the data into the target data models, and then acquire, validate, and transform the data in an automated, repeatable fashion. Without code, fully reusable.

Exafluence will deliver some disruptive solutions in the data and AI space and continue to push the envelope. The company’s cost model and how it works with its clients is changing the industry, The era of enterprise software is over. Companies want to be more flexible and not sign multi-year contracts that have them locked into an arrangement they cannot control.
“Our solutions empower companies to take ownership and deliver solutions much more quickly and efficiently without the foot in the bear trap. It is nice to work for a company that has a true sense of giving back. We make sure you have the data you need to successfully implement and deliver AI,” concludes Joerg.

“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”- Wayne Gretzky”