Renowned international leader in medtech Dig Howitt, CEO & President of Cochlear Limited, has worked with the global leader in implantable hearing solutions for over two decades.
Established in 1981 and headquartered at Sydney’s Macquarie University, Cochlear is an Australian medtech success story, addressing hearing loss as a global public health priority. The company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology is reflected through its investment of AUD$220 million per year in implantable hearing R&D, the highest in the industry.
With an impressive 60% global market share, Cochlear sets a shining example of successful innovation in Australia, providing valuable lessons on commercialising home-grown innovations, disrupting markets, and leading an innovation-focused global business.
Dig’s journey with Cochlear began in 2000 as an engineering manager in product development. Since January 2018, he has served as CEO & President, previously holding roles as COO, President – Asia Pacific, and Senior VP – Manufacturing and Logistics.
With an electrical engineering background and an MBA from Stanford University, he has also worked with Boston Consulting Group, Boral, and Sunstate Cement. An advocate for promoting women in STEM leadership, he is a member of the Champions of Change STEM Group.