Cork Medical, a leading provider of innovative wound care solutions and an Indiana Chamber of Commerce Best Places to Work in Indiana award winner, has appointed Mike Cates as its new president to oversee all business operations. Cates has more than 25 years of experience in global manufacturing and healthcare leadership. His portfolio includes a solid record of strategic thinking, analytical acumen, and operational excellence with a commitment to developing organizations that drive sustainable business growth.
“My leadership philosophy is predicated on eight key principles: service, empowerment, listening, development, inclusivity, collaboration, integrity, and continuous improvement. These principles allow me to be a servant leader centered around selfless service, empathy, and a commitment to the growth and well-being of those I lead,” states Cates.
As Cork Medical enters its second year of rapid growth due to a rebranding, restructured production workflows, and expanding its Nisus NPWT portfolio, Cates will become a valuable asset for the company’s continuous growth and scalability in 2024 and beyond. Additionally, the eight key principles of his unique leadership philosophy will allow the company to achieve widespread success while keeping in line with its improving lives mission.
“Having Mike fulfill the role of president to support our executive team creates a strong leadership dynamic,” said Brian Karns, Cork Medical chief operating officer. “He will ensure the plans created by our executive team are executed effectively. This alignment can indeed foster better collaboration across departments, streamline processes, and drive company growth.”
Prior to joining Cork Medical, Cates held a series of leadership and operational positions at esteemed organizations, including Ascension St. Vincent Indiana, the Grundfos Group, the Peerless Pump Company, General Electric, Blue Circle Cement, and JELD-WEN. Additionally, his diverse leadership journey included serving as an Infantry Platoon Leader in the United States Army.
“I am looking forward to working with Mike as he will focus on bringing speed and accountability while providing additional support and leadership needed to continue Cork Medical’s growth,” said Matt Effinger, Cork Medical chief revenue officer.
During Cates’ onboarding process, he plans to focus on understanding and meeting the needs of Cork Medical’s employees, customers, and stakeholders. From there he will focus on building a strong culture, carrying out Cork Medical’s growth strategy for 2024, and building a scalable business growth strategy for the foreseeable future.
“I believe in fostering a culture of continuous improvement where we learn from our experiences, adapt to change, and strive for excellence in everything we do,” mentioned Cates.