Bioventus (Nasdaq:BVS) announced that it appointed Robert Claypoole as its new president and CEO, effective Jan. 10, 2024.
Claypoole succeeds Anthony Bihl, who served as interim CEO and board director since April 2023. Bihl took over in the interim role after Ken Reali stepped down for unknown reasons after three years in the corner office.
Durham, North Carolina-based Bioventus said in a news release that Claypoole brings more than 20 years of global commercial leadership experience in the medical device industry. He most recently served as EVP at Mölnlycke Health Care AB, leading its global wound care business.
Previously, Claypoole held senior positions at Medtronic, Covidien and Johnson & Johnson.
“We are excited to have Rob join Bioventus and build upon the significant improvements made this year to further elevate our execution and overall performance,” said William A. Hawkins, Bioventus’ executive chair. “Throughout his career, Rob has demonstrated first-hand his ability at unlocking value opportunities across a global business. His track record is marked by consistently driving commercial and operational excellence, resulting in above-market sales growth and enhanced profitability. Moreover, Rob has a history of cultivating high-performing teams with a laser focus on execution.”
More on new the Bioventus CEO’s background
At Mölnlycke, Claypoole held full responsibility for the company’s $1.2 billion wound care business. He helped accelerate growth from mid-single-digit to consistent double-digit sales and profitability growth.
Prior to joining Mölnlycke in 2017, he held various leadership roles at Medtronic (and Covidien before Medtronic acquired it). He served as global VP and GM of obesity and metabolic health and VP and GM of soft tissue repair and hemostats. Before that, he held the VP of executive operations position.
Before joining Covidien in 2007, Claypoole held a number of marketing roles with increasing responsibility at Johnson & Johnson.
Claypoole called Bioventus a company with a strong foundation and a diverse, market-leading product portfolio.
“I was attracted to this unique and exciting opportunity given our important mission to return patients to active lives and due to the company’s positive momentum this year to solidify Bioventus’ financial position,” he said. “I look forward to working with the Board and entire team to drive growth and innovation, generate operational efficiencies, and strengthen profitability as we unlock the full potential of our business and create value for patients and our shareholders.”