Case study
Vetscan Vue+: Leadership in a Regulated Med-Tech Environment
Guiding a complex, AI-powered medical device from concept to global launch by navigating international team dynamics, regulatory hurdles, and corporate bureaucracy.
Delivering a mission-critical device across continents
The goal was to bring the Vetscan Vue+, a next-generation diagnostic analyzer, from initial concept to a global launch. The project's complexity was immense, involving a cross-functional team of 9 specialists distributed between Denmark and the US. This introduced significant logistical hurdles, including a 9-hour time difference, production site transfers, and dependencies on a complex global corporate ecosystem.
At the core of the device was a machine vision component that had to outperform human experts—all while adhering to a strict ISO 13485-style framework. The challenge was therefore twofold: manage the immense logistical and human complexity of an international project, while ensuring the technical development met the highest standards for safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance.
Pragmatic leadership and a focus on velocity
Success depended on creating an environment where the team could thrive despite the obstacles. This was achieved through a people-first, pragmatic leadership approach focused on empowering the team and proactively removing blockers.
1. Implementing a fit-for-purpose agile system: A critical factor was championing and implementing a self-developed, agile requirements system that was precisely tailored to the project's needs. This decision allowed the team to maintain focus and momentum, demonstrating the value of adapting processes to be fit-for-purpose. This agility was a key enabler for the successful and timely delivery of a critical product.
2. Resourceful problem-solving to maintain velocity: When a standard procurement path for new servers presented a significant project delay, I took the initiative to use project funds to purchase and implement a local high-power server. This practical decision unblocked the R&D team in three days instead of several months, demonstrating a hands-on approach to removing obstacles that directly accelerated the project timeline.
3. Fostering a resilient, high-performing team: Beyond project management, the focus was on building a resilient and highly skilled team. Through active mentorship and strategic hiring, we built out the team's capabilities, leading to promotions and increased autonomy. This investment in people was fundamental to navigating the project's complexities.
A world-class product and team
By focusing on pragmatic leadership and effective people management, we successfully navigated the significant logistical, regulatory, and geographical challenges. The Vetscan Vue+ was delivered to the global market, with its machine vision component proving more consistent in test readouts than the most experienced human experts.
More importantly, the project's success demonstrated that even within a highly regulated and complex corporate structure, a people-first approach that prioritizes team velocity and practical problem-solving is the key to delivering exceptional results.