US MEDTECH company Edwards Lifesciences has announced the appointment of Emmet Kelly as the new vice president and plant manager of its manufacturing facilities in Castletroy in Limerick and Shannon, County Clare.
The Oranmore man and father of three will take the reigns at the plants, which boast over 500 staff in Limerick alone, manufacturing life-saving implantable devices – such as surgical and transcatheter therapies – to treat patients’ heart valves, helping them live longer and healthier lives.
In his new role, Mr Kelly will oversee all aspects of the Ireland operations, including manufacturing execution, talent development, process optimisation, and the implementation of continuous improvement programmes.
He will also represent Edwards with external stakeholders, including local government, community organisations, and regulatory agencies.
A spokesperson for Edwards Lifesciences said that Mr Kelly “brings over 25 years of medical technology industry experience, including nearly a decade in the US, with a strong background in manufacturing, human resources, supplier management, and strategic project management”.
“He has successfully led plant improvements and expansions and managed manufacturing across multiple lines and locations.”
The Galway man holds a Masters degree in industrial engineering from University College Dublin.
“I am honoured to join Edwards and lead the Irish facilities, which play a vital role in the company’s global supply chain,” said Mr Kelly.
“I look forward to working with the talented team in Ireland, inspired by our patient-focused culture to pioneer and deliver innovative, life-changing medical technologies to patients around the world.”
