Career

Copy the Leader: Xavier Cahiz
Xavier Cahiz, c’81, is Global Vice President (EX-US) Supply Chain at Mundipharma Medical Company.

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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.

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 or group 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 can leaders in your industry help their organizations adapt to change?

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.

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