Medtronic, a global healthcare technology leader with over $32 billion in annual revenue, is known for its groundbreaking medical devices and innovative solutions. Operating in more than 150 countries, the company treats 75 million patients annually with 18 operating units offering 17 distinct therapies. Rashmi Kumar, Global CIO of Medtronic, has been at the helm of the company’s digital transformation for two years, driving initiatives like hyper-automation, digital-first strategies and advancements in artificial intelligence. Kumar has honed an expertise at the intersection of technology and healthcare across her career, as she is also a board member at Myriad Genetics, and past executive roles have included tenures as CIO of Hewlett Packard Enterprise and as a business unit CIO at McKesson.
A Career Built on Transformation
Kumar’s career began as a metallurgical engineer at Tata Steel, where she gained a holistic understanding of business operations. Her introduction to technology came through digitizing processes and developing heat transfer models for steelmaking.
“Engineering taught me to break problems into pieces and solve them systematically,” she reflects. “When I transitioned to technology, I brought that problem-solving mindset with me.”
Earning an MBA was a turning point, transforming her from an engineer focused on answers to a leader skilled in asking the right questions. This balance of technical expertise and strategic leadership now guides her work at Medtronic.
Transforming IT to Enable a Digital-First Enterprise
As Global CIO of Medtronic, Kumar is focused on evolving Medtronic’s IT operations into a cohesive digital hub that aligns seamlessly with business needs. She emphasized the importance of operational excellence while fostering long-term transformation.
“IT has to be a digital centerpiece, driving broad initiatives across the company rather than remaining siloed,” Kumar explained. “We’re working toward a culture where technology becomes intrinsic to our operations, helping employees and providers remove friction in their processes.”
This digital-first mindset, Kumar noted, is about more than technology; it’s about rethinking how the company operates and delivers value.
Harnessing Hyper-Automation for Efficiency
A key area of focus for Kumar has been hyper-automation, which she likens to the finely tuned teamwork behind elite athletes like Roger Federer or Formula 1 drivers. “It’s not just the person on the court or in the car; there’s an entire system behind them ensuring peak performance,” she offered, building on the analogy.
Hyper-automation at Medtronic involves leveraging AI and machine learning to streamline repetitive tasks, enhance decision-making and optimize operations. Kumar highlighted the use of tools like Python, Power BI, and Snowflake to analyze large datasets, improving everything from HR processes to customer service. “It’s about reducing waste, improving efficiency, and ultimately driving better outcomes for both employees and patients,” she added.
AI and Generative AI: A Healthcare Revolution
Under Kumar’s leadership, Medtronic has embraced artificial intelligence, creating GPT.Medtronic.com as a central platform for generative AI applications. This platform enables efficient content creation, internal automation and enhanced customer care.
Kumar is particularly excited about AI’s role in Medtronic’s products, such as robotic-assisted surgery and AI-powered diagnostic tools. “One example is AI Genius, which uses image recognition to detect polyps better than a doctor,” she noted. “The potential for AI to revolutionize healthcare, both in our internal operations and in the therapies we provide, is profound.”
Building a Global IT Center in Hyderabad
Medtronic recently established a global IT center in Hyderabad, India, under Kumar’s guidance. This $60 million investment reflects the company’s commitment to leveraging global talent and enhancing its technological capabilities.
“Hyderabad offers access to a highly skilled workforce that shares our purpose,” Kumar explained. “It’s also strategically located to support the fast-growing Eurasia region and enables around-the-clock productivity.”
The center focuses on cutting-edge technologies such as AI, cloud engineering and digital health, further cementing Medtronic’s leadership in healthcare innovation.
The Future of Healthcare Technology
As Kumar looks to the future, she is optimistic about the role of technology in advancing healthcare access and innovation. “We’re working on solutions that combine human touch with cutting-edge technology,” she underscored. “Digital surgery kits, for instance, allow doctors to learn remotely and provide better care for underserved populations.”
Kumar also emphasized the importance of talent development within Medtronic, ensuring employees are equipped to navigate a rapidly changing landscape. “The more we automate, the more data we generate, enabling us to build even better solutions,” she concluded.
With leaders like Rashmi Kumar driving its vision, Medtronic is well-positioned to continue shaping the future of healthcare through technology, making life-saving treatments more accessible and effective for millions around the world.
Peter High is President of Metis Strategy, a business and IT advisory firm. He has written three bestselling books, including his latest Getting to Nimble. He also moderates the Technovation podcast series and speaks at conferences around the world. Follow him on Twitter @PeterAHigh.
