*Emmet Kelly.
EDWARDS LIFESCIENCES have appointed Emmet Kelly as Vice President and plant general manager for its manufacturing facilities in Shannon and Castletroy.
In his role, Emmet will oversee all aspects of the Ireland operations, including manufacturing execution, talent development, process optimisation, and the implementation of continuous improvement programmes. He will also represent Edwards with external stakeholders, including local government, community organisations, and regulatory agencies.
Kelly brings over 25 years of medical technology industry experience, including nearly a decade in the US, with a strong background in manufacturing, human resources, supplier management, and strategic project management. He has successfully led plant improvements and expansions and managed manufacturing across multiple lines and locations. Kelly holds a Master of Industrial Engineering from University College Dublin.
Millions of patients worldwide suffer from structural heart disease, facing high mortality rates and severe quality of life limitations. At the Limerick plant, more than 500 employees are dedicated to manufacturing life-saving breakthrough implantable devices such as surgical and transcatheter therapies to treat patients’ heart valves, helping them live longer, healthier lives. The Shannon facility started operations in August 2018.
“I am honoured to join Edwards and lead the Irish facilities, which play a vital role in the company’s global supply chain,” said Kelly. “I look forward to working with the talented team in Ireland, inspired by our patient-focused culture to pioneer and deliver innovative, life-changing medical technologies to patients around the world,” Emmet said of his new post. He resides in Oranmore with his wife, Kate, and their three sons.
