CEO Today Healthcare Awards 2023 - 17 - - AUSTRALIA - Our thoughts and actions are shaped by our love of challenges and setting standards with the best products and concepts. We think outside the box, looking for new approaches and constantly developing our expertise. Sustainability is a growing concern across industries. Could you elaborate on any sustainability initiatives or practices medi has adopted, particularly concerning manufacturing and recycling used products? In 2023, we launched mediven®️ cotton – a unique product that has patient care and sustainability at its core. Throughout the R&D phase of creating mediven cotton, medi adopted ecofriendly manufacturing processes, reducing waste and promoting recycling. mediven cotton only uses cotton from suppliers that meet the internationally leading Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). In addition to certified organic cotton, we also use recycled polyamide yarn, certified according to high criteria by the Global Recycled Standard (GRS). We have created a sustainable stocking by implementing these factors into the product. The recycled polyamide yarn’s material and manufacturing process meets international ecological and social standards - in terms of sustainability for people and the environment. The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) is the world’s leading standard for recycled materials and identifies demonstrably recycled and sustainably processed materials. The recycled material used must be traceable to its origin. The manufacturer must state and document exactly in which production process the material originated as waste. In the case of the yarn used in mediven cotton*, this is the in-house production of our polyamide yarn supplier. Companies to be certified must have an environmental management system that documents the company’s annual planning and achievement of the following ecological requirements. Targets for reducing electricity and water consumption, wastewater, CO2 emissions and waste must be set and tracked. It is forbidden to use problematic substances that endanger the health of employees or the environment. The polyamide yarn used in mediven cotton* comprises 60 per cent recycled raw material from polyamide production. The process is also transparent - it meets all traceability requirements. The result: saved resources and benefits for the environment! We continually invest in research to develop sustainable materials and production methods. Additionally, we encourage responsible disposal and recycling of our products to contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. On a more personal note, can you share your leadership philosophy and how it guides your decisions and strategy at medi, Australia? My leadership philosophy centres around collaboration, innovation, and empathy. I believe in fostering a culture of open communication where every team member’s input is valued. I’m a huge fan of Patrick Lencioni and his trust and team dynamics theories. I also believe in continuous learning and encourage the other leaders in our business to support their teams in developing skills and knowledge. Lastly, empathy towards our customers and their patients and understanding their needs guide our strategy, ensuring our actions positively impact patients and the organisation. As you look forward, please share some of the primary objectives you aim to achieve as Managing Director at medi in the upcoming period. Are there any novel services or products that we can anticipate? In the past two months, we have introduced at least three new products to the Australian market – Rejuva is our first fashion-based compression range for the Aussie market. We have added seamless toecaps to the flat-knit range and new colours and patterns to our flat-knit compression product range. At medi Australia, our immediate focus is meeting the growth demands of our customers while we add to our team and grow our capabilities across Australia. Recent wins at our local business awards, nominations for national awards within our sector, and commencing new tenders in NSW and WA are just some of what is in store for medi’s new year. We’ve seen substantial growth over the past 18 months and look to consolidate this in 2024 and beyond - these are exciting times. “At medi, the patient is at the heart of our operations. We strive to have everyone say ‘medi. I feel better.’ ”
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