Alumni

Copy the Leader: Xavier Cahiz

October 20, 2021

Jayhawks in leadership positions are everywhere you look, including through the Jayhawk Career Network. KU Alumni, in partnership with SumnerOne, is highlighting Jayhawk leaders who are models for others in their industries with our “Copy the Leader” program.

Xavier Cahiz, c’81, is Global Vice President (EX-US) Supply Chain at Mundipharma Medical Company. We sat down with Xavier to learn what leadership means to him.

What do you do in your work?

I am responsible for planning, product supply, and distribution operations for the entire Mundipharma portfolio in over 50 markets. Additionally, I lead strategic business reviews and ensure alignment with our commercial and financial objectives. Developed and executes our operations excellence program to achieve working capital and cost improvements.

What are the qualities of a good leader?

Identify, coach, and develops other leaders. Ensure the team’s success by eliminating roadblocks and facilitating learning and development. Celebrate success and learn from failures.

How do you practice leadership at your job?

By building a trusting, inclusive, and sociologically safe environment, open diverse opinions. Do what I say I’m going to do and clarify goals, objectives, and expectations.

What makes a team successful?

A team that communicates, collaborates, and trusts each other. They have a purpose, share objectives and accountabilities and are open to new approaches and ideas.

How has your company adapted to the changes brought by the pandemic?

We implemented a mixed model of office and remote work and heavily relied on communication and video solutions. We increased the frequency of communication and looked after our employee’s emotional and physical welfare. Worked closely with our suppliers, customers, and logistics partners to ensure continuity of supply for medically critical drugs

The Copy the Leader program is brought to you by SumnerOne. SumnerOne is one of the largest independent office technology dealers in the Midwest, with offices in Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. We’re a family of respected companies united by ONE goal: to exceed your expectations and help you get the most from your investments in printing, IT, and document technology.