In the world of medical technology, where innovation and empathy often go hand-in-hand, few leaders embody this spirit quite like Annette Brüls, the CEO of Medela. Brüls isn’t just steering a global company; she’s leveraging her extensive experience and personal touch to empower mothers and champion women’s health on a…
Leading with Care: The Story of Annette Brüls, CEO of Medela

In the world of medical technology, where innovation and empathy often go hand-in-hand, few leaders embody this spirit quite like Annette Brüls, the CEO of Medela. Brüls isn’t just steering a global company; she’s leveraging her extensive experience and personal touch to empower mothers and champion women’s health on a global scale.

A Passion for Medical Technology

Brüls’ journey began not in the boardroom, but in the world of research. Fueled by a fascination with the biomedical field, she started her career as a research engineer. This scientific foundation would prove invaluable as she transitioned into various leadership roles across multinational medtech companies like Abbott and Medtronic. Over two decades, Brüls gained a comprehensive understanding of the medical device industry, from research and development to sales and marketing. This breadth of experience would become a cornerstone of her leadership style.

The Challenge and Allure of Medela

In 2018, Brüls took the helm at Medela, a company synonymous with breastfeeding support. While the challenge of leading a brand so deeply entrenched in the maternal health space was undeniable, it also resonated deeply with Brüls. “Despite all my experience,” she explains in a Milestone Magazine interview, “I found myself genuinely excited by the challenges I was set to face.” This excitement stemmed not just from the opportunity to lead a well-respected company, but also from the chance to make a real difference in the lives of mothers and their babies.

Championing Mothers and Their Journeys

Brüls’ vision for Medela goes beyond simply selling breast pumps. Her focus is on empowering mothers throughout their breastfeeding journeys, recognizing the challenges and triumphs that come with nourishing a newborn. Under her leadership, Medela has expanded its reach through educational resources, lactation support programs, and a commitment to creating a supportive environment for working mothers. This commitment reflects Brüls’ own experiences as a working mother, allowing her to connect with her customers on a personal level.

“I am personally dedicated to improving the opportunities available to mothers in the workplace,” she states on the WeAdvance platform https://weadvance.ch/organisation/.

Innovation with a Human Touch

Brüls understands that technology plays a crucial role in supporting mothers. Medela, under her guidance, continues to invest in research and development, creating new breast pumps and lactation aids that are both technologically advanced and user-friendly. This focus on innovation ensures that mothers have access to the latest tools and resources they need to succeed in their breastfeeding goals.

Leading by Example: A Culture of Care

Brüls’ leadership style extends far beyond product development. She has fostered a company culture that embodies the same values of care and empathy that resonate with Medela’s mission. This is evident in the company’s repeated recognition on platforms like Comparably, where Brüls has been consistently lauded as a “Best CEO” based on employee feedback. These accolades point to a work environment that values its employees and empowers them to contribute to Medela’s mission.

Building a Legacy Beyond Breastfeeding

While breastfeeding support remains a core pillar of Medela’s identity, Brüls is also strategically expanding the company’s reach. Medela leverages its expertise in medical vacuum technology to offer a wider range of healthcare solutions, from surgical products to pain management devices. This diversification ensures the company’s continued growth and allows it to have a positive impact on a broader spectrum of healthcare needs.


A Force for Good in the Medical Technology Industry

Annette Brüls is a leader who inspires not just within Medela, but across the entire medical technology industry. Her blend of scientific expertise, business acumen, and genuine care sets a powerful example. Under her guidance, Medela is not just a company that sells products; it’s a force for good that empowers mothers, fosters a supportive work environment, and continuously strives to improve human health. As Brüls continues to chart Medela’s course, it’s clear that the company’s future is bright, built on a foundation of innovation, empathy, and a deep commitment to making a difference in the world.