Reflections on My First 100 Days at Avanos

Stepping into Avanos, my very first impression was one of warmth, pride, and purpose. Across every site visit, roundtable, and hallway conversation, I've been inspired by the way our people live out our vision of getting patients back to the things that matter. The culture here is one of resilience, innovation, and genuine care-a combination that makes Avanos both unique and powerful.

What has surprised me most in these first 100 days is how quickly employees at all levels are embracing change. Whether on the production floor at our Nogales, Mexico, plant; learning about our radiofrequency ablation technology at our Diros facility in Ontario; in strategy discussions with leadership in Singapore; or in conversations with our Employee Resource Groups, there is a clear readiness to innovate and transform. That collective energy has only strengthened my confidence in the road ahead.

When I began this journey, my top priorities were simple: listen, learn, and build relationships. While those remain at the core of my approach, I've also seen the opportunity for HR to be more than a supporting function-it can be a true growth driver.

Today, we're shaping an HR strategy that fuels innovation, strengthens our talent pipeline, and ensures that our culture and values move in lockstep with Avanos' broader business goals. I envision HR at Avanos becoming a trusted, future-ready partner-globally connected, locally impactful, and deeply aligned to our mission.

A highlight of these first months has been the chance to connect with employees across different levels, within multiple geographies, and across various functions. From employee engagement events to HR leadership sessions to plant and facility tours, each experience has reminded me that our people are our greatest strength. Their stories and commitment inspire me every day.

Looking forward, my focus is on fostering a culture of inclusion, engagement, and growth. This means empowering ERGs to play a strategic role in shaping our transformation, creating opportunities that unlock potential at every level, and leading with transparency, authenticity, and care so that everyone feels a true sense of belonging.

For those stepping into new leadership roles, my advice is this: listen deeply, act with clarity, and lead with empathy. Stay true to your values while embracing change, and remember that authenticity builds trust. When people know you care and see that you deliver, they will walk with you through any transformation.

As I reflect on these first 100 days, I feel both grateful and energized. Grateful for the extraordinary people who make Avanos what it is today-and energized for the journey ahead as we continue to transform, grow, and live our purpose together.

Stepping into Avanos, my very first impression was one of warmth, pride, and purpose. Across every site visit, roundtable, and hallway conversation, I've been inspired by the way our people live out our vision of getting patients back to the things that matter. The culture here is one of resilience, innovation, and genuine care-a combination that makes Avanos both unique and powerful.

What has surprised me most in these first 100 days is how quickly employees at all levels are embracing change. Whether on the production floor at our Nogales, Mexico, plant; learning about our radiofrequency ablation technology at our Diros facility in Ontario; in strategy discussions with leadership in Singapore; or in conversations with our Employee Resource Groups, there is a clear readiness to innovate and transform. That collective energy has only strengthened my confidence in the road ahead.

When I began this journey, my top priorities were simple: listen, learn, and build relationships. While those remain at the core of my approach, I've also seen the opportunity for HR to be more than a supporting function-it can be a true growth driver.

Today, we're shaping an HR strategy that fuels innovation, strengthens our talent pipeline, and ensures that our culture and values move in lockstep with Avanos' broader business goals. I envision HR at Avanos becoming a trusted, future-ready partner-globally connected, locally impactful, and deeply aligned to our mission.

A highlight of these first months has been the chance to connect with employees across different levels, within multiple geographies, and across various functions. From employee engagement events to HR leadership sessions to plant and facility tours, each experience has reminded me that our people are our greatest strength. Their stories and commitment inspire me every day.

Looking forward, my focus is on fostering a culture of inclusion, engagement, and growth. This means empowering ERGs to play a strategic role in shaping our transformation, creating opportunities that unlock potential at every level, and leading with transparency, authenticity, and care so that everyone feels a true sense of belonging.

For those stepping into new leadership roles, my advice is this: listen deeply, act with clarity, and lead with empathy. Stay true to your values while embracing change, and remember that authenticity builds trust. When people know you care and see that you deliver, they will walk with you through any transformation.

As I reflect on these first 100 days, I feel both grateful and energized. Grateful for the extraordinary people who make Avanos what it is today-and energized for the journey ahead as we continue to transform, grow, and live our purpose together.