Medtech POV Podcast | Top Medtech Recruiter Joe Mullings on How to “Let Your Leaders Lead,” How to Get into the Medtech Field

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a recent episode of the Medtech POV Podcast, one of the medtech industry’s top recruiters spoke with host Scott Whitaker about how those seeking to work in medtech can navigate the field’s changing dynamics, what makes a great leader, and how access to health care can be expanded in the U.S., among other topics.

Joe Mullings, as chairman and CEO of The Mullings Group, has found work and meaningful careers in medtech for approximately 8,000 people throughout his company’s history. Reflecting on his long career of recruiting, he noted that “it is incredibly rare that people exit this industry when they’re in it.”

Whitaker, president and CEO of AdvaMed, said, “It’s not just a job, right?”

“No, it’s a calling,” Joe responded. “My guidance to [young people seeking entry into the medtech field] always is … Look at the pathway into clinical trials … If you’re smart, if you’re committed, if you’re structured, there’s always an opening for the CRA, the clinical research associate, and you will learn the technical side of the business. Most people don’t even know those roles exist. [Medtech companies] are always looking to hire smart, young, driven people, and you will get the clinical expertise. You will get exposure to the KOLs [key opinion leaders]. You’ll understand the entire life cycle of a medical device, and you’ll get paid reasonably well. And you can live anywhere in the country for the most part to get that job. That’s your entryway into medtech.”

Mullings also spoke at length about not just how to lead, but how to find and groom leaders from within the ranks of one’s company:

“There are people who are not in positions of functional title and influence but are incredible leaders … And just by their behaviors and their understanding and empathetic perspective, [they have] a high-accountability, low-maintenance mentality. Right? So, you know, I think about the words: vulnerability with strength. I think about the words: ego with humility. I think about the words: empathy that gets tied to responsibility, right? And as you start to balance those words out and those behaviors … those are some of the best leaders, right? Because they create … the crucible that allows for safety and development, but no acceptance and compromise. … It’s not the same crucible for every human being, because you don’t know what every human being is carrying with them … everybody’s got their own crucible. And the best leaders are able to, within reason, figure out what that person’s crucible is. And how do you set a goal out there for them that … doesn’t break them but challenges them. And then all of a sudden they turn around and look over their shoulder a year later and they’re like, ‘Who have I become? Look at this!’”

To listen to the full conversation, which includes Mullings’ insights on how the U.S. can expand access to health care, how to increase the medtech industry’s inclusiveness and diversity, among other topics, check out the Medtech POV podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite podcast streaming service. For more information on the podcast and past guests, click here.

The Medtech POV is hosted by Scott Whitaker, President and CEO of AdvaMed, the world’s largest medical technology association. It premiered in April 2021 and has featured medtech and health care policy leaders such as Dr. Steven Hahn and Dr. Jeff Shuren, as well as prominent leaders like General James Mattis. In each episode, guests and host Scott Whitaker cover the intersection of medtech and policy from every perspective, including current issues in business, policy and current events.

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AdvaMed member companies produce the medical devices, diagnostic products and health information systems that are transforming health care through earlier disease detection, less invasive procedures and more effective treatments. AdvaMed members range from the largest to the smallest medical technology innovators and companies. For more information, visit www.advamed.org.