Cochlear Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Cochlear has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, information technology, regional operations, and emerging markets.

Driven by innovation in hearing solutions, Cochlear is dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with hearing loss through advanced medical devices and a commitment to patient outcomes.

Leadership Roles at Cochlear

  • Chief Executive Officer & President - Dig Howitt
  • Chief Financial Officer - Neville Mitchell
  • President, Asia Pacific & Latin America - Stuart Sayers
  • President (Latin America) & Head of Emerging Market Council - Christopher Bertrand
  • Chief Information Officer - Karen O'Driscoll
  • Dig Howitt - Chief Executive Officer & President

    Dig Howitt, the Chief Executive Officer & President at Cochlear, directs the company's global strategy and operational execution. Overseeing all facets of the business, Howitt ensures alignment with Cochlear's mission to develop and deliver advanced hearing implant solutions. This leadership role involves driving innovation in medical device technology and expanding market access for patients worldwide. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, Dig Howitt guides the organization in its commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals with hearing loss. The Chief Executive Officer & President's purview encompasses research and development, manufacturing, sales, and marketing efforts, ensuring cohesive progress across all departments. This executive's strategic vision shapes Cochlear's long-term growth trajectory and reinforces its position as a leader in the audiology sector. The Chief Executive Officer & President's focus remains on delivering superior patient outcomes and sustainable business performance.
    Dig Howitt

    Neville Mitchell - Chief Financial Officer

    Neville Mitchell, the Chief Financial Officer at Cochlear, manages the company's financial health and strategic resource allocation. Overseeing all financial operations, Mitchell ensures robust fiscal management and drives profitability across global markets. This critical role involves developing financial strategies that support Cochlear's expansion and innovation in medical device manufacturing. By optimizing capital deployment and managing financial risks, Neville Mitchell safeguards the company's assets and enhances shareholder value. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to budgeting, forecasting, investor relations, and ensuring compliance with international financial regulations. This executive's expertise is vital for sustaining Cochlear's operational capacity and funding its research into advanced cochlear implant technologies. The Chief Financial Officer's guidance is essential for maintaining financial stability and enabling Cochlear's continued growth in the competitive healthcare industry.

    Stuart Sayers - President, Asia Pacific & Latin America

    Stuart Sayers, the President, Asia Pacific & Latin America at Cochlear, directs regional business operations and market development across these key territories. Overseeing sales, marketing, and distribution strategies, Sayers drives Cochlear's growth and patient reach in diverse global markets. This leadership position involves tailoring business approaches to meet the unique needs of patients and healthcare providers in the Asia Pacific and Latin America regions. By fostering strong local partnerships and expanding access to cochlear implant technology, Stuart Sayers contributes significantly to Cochlear's global mission. The President, Asia Pacific & Latin America's responsibilities include managing regional teams, ensuring regulatory compliance, and executing strategic initiatives to enhance market penetration. This executive's focus is on expanding Cochlear's impact and improving hearing outcomes for a broader patient population. The President, Asia Pacific & Latin America ensures operational excellence within these vital geographic areas.
    Stuart Sayers

    Christopher Bertrand - President (Latin America) & Head of Emerging Market Council

    Christopher Bertrand, the President (Latin America) & Head of Emerging Market Council at Cochlear, spearheads strategic initiatives for the Latin American region and guides the development of emerging markets globally. Overseeing market entry and expansion strategies, Bertrand focuses on increasing access to Cochlear's life-changing hearing solutions in underserved areas. This role is crucial for identifying and capitalizing on growth opportunities within developing economies and complex market landscapes. By cultivating relationships with key stakeholders and adapting business models, Christopher Bertrand drives Cochlear's mission forward in these critical regions. The President (Latin America) & Head of Emerging Market Council's responsibilities include developing tailored commercial approaches and ensuring the effective deployment of resources. This executive's leadership is instrumental in extending Cochlear's reach and impact, bringing advanced audiology to more patients worldwide. The President (Latin America) & Head of Emerging Market Council champions innovation in market development.

    Karen O'Driscoll - Chief Information Officer

    Karen O'Driscoll, the Chief Information Officer at Cochlear, leads the company's technology strategy and digital transformation initiatives. Overseeing all information systems and data management, O'Driscoll ensures the secure and efficient operation of Cochlear's global IT infrastructure. This role is pivotal in leveraging technology to enhance product development, streamline manufacturing processes, and improve patient engagement with hearing solutions. By implementing advanced digital tools and cybersecurity measures, Karen O'Driscoll supports Cochlear's commitment to innovation and operational excellence. The Chief Information Officer's purview includes managing enterprise software, network infrastructure, and digital platforms that facilitate global collaboration. This executive's vision drives the integration of cutting-edge technology to support Cochlear's mission of restoring hearing. The Chief Information Officer's focus is on building resilient and scalable IT systems that empower the organization.
    Karen O'Driscoll

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Cochlear Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Cochlear?
    Cochlear is led by Dig Howitt (Chief Executive Officer & President), along with executives such as Neville Mitchell (Chief Financial Officer) and Stuart Sayers (President, Asia Pacific & Latin America).
    Who is part of Cochlear’s executive team?
    The executive team of Cochlear includes leaders such as Dig Howitt (Chief Executive Officer & President), Neville Mitchell (Chief Financial Officer), Stuart Sayers (President, Asia Pacific & Latin America) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Cochlear have?
    Cochlear has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Cochlear’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Cochlear includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer & President, Chief Financial Officer, President, Asia Pacific & Latin America, President (Latin America) & Head of Emerging Market Council, Chief Information Officer.