Edwards’ Joe Nuzzolese on planning for disruption, prioritizing patients & automating supply chains

DeviceTalks Podcast Network

In this episode of Structural Heart Talks, Joe Nuzzolese, corporate VP of global supply chain and quality at Edwards Lifesciences, shares how the company has built a resilient and responsive supply chain capable of withstanding significant disruptions—pandemic included—without missing a single patient case.

Nuzzolese explains how Edwards takes a "plan, make, source, deliver" approach, and why MedTech supply chains differ from consumer goods with a stronger emphasis on quality and availability. He details how the company strategically leverages dual sourcing, inventory buffering, and global distribution flexibility to maintain operations, even when borders close or suppliers face challenges.

He also unpacks the need for automation and digital integration, explains how Edwards connects employees to patient outcomes to instill purpose, and reveals why fostering innovation readiness is central to their long-term strategy.

Thank you to Daikin America for sponsoring this episode of Structural Heart Talks. To learn more about Daikin America’s products for your medical application visit https://daikin-america.com.

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