Ahead of the Pack

Abbott's Miles White earns an 11th consecutive appearance on Barron's Best CEOs list.

Strategy and Strength|Jun.17, 2019

Abbott's Miles White has made Barron's Best CEOs list for the 11th straight year, joining a group of only five corporate leaders who have achieved this milestone.

Mr. White joins fellow CEOs Warren Buffett (Berkshire Hathaway), Jamie Dimon (JPMorgan Chase), Larry Fink (BlackRock) and Ma Huateng (Tencent Holdings) in remaining on the list 11 straight years or longer.

The accomplishments in shaping the global medical technology company during Mr. White's' tenure are widely recognized by investors and business leaders across the country. Abbott continues to win accolades for its innovation, performance and appeal as an employer, having been named the industry leader in the medical products and equipment sector on Fortune's Most Admired Companies list since 2013.

"We're intently focused on anticipating changes in medical science and technology," Mr. White said in a recent Forbes interview. "That's how we ensure we're current and relevant to bring the next generation of advances to the people we serve … You have to be not just willing to change, but hungry for change that's constructive and valuable."

The leadership team's laser focus on preparing Abbott for a successful future has created strategic shifts to drive long-term results. Today, more than 50% of sales come from businesses that Abbott has moved into over the last six years, including some of our most recent and significant M&A moves.

"We've done a lot to make sure a stewardship mentality is built into the company, its culture, and its systems," Mr. White said in the recent interview. "It's great to be 130 years old; but you can only have that longevity if you're current and relevant every single day. That's what we aspire to."

*Editor's note: After a remarkable 21-year tenure, Miles White stepped down as Abbott's CEO on March 31, 2020. At that time, Robert Ford became the CEO of Abbott. Mr. White remains Abbott's Executive Chairman, serving on Abbott's Board of Directors.

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