Key points:
- Nurgul Vatansever, Vice President for Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa at Beckman Coulter Diagnostics, brings 25 years of diverse experience in healthcare to her role, focusing on creating purpose-driven organizations that serve healthcare providers
- Beckman Coulter Diagnostics, under Nurgul’s leadership, aims to enhance support for healthcare providers through cutting-edge diagnostic solutions, catering to diverse markets and driving growth in the EEMEA region.
- Nurgul highlights the need for diagnostic innovation in the EEMEA region, spurred by rising healthcare investments, growing awareness about early disease detection, and improvements in healthcare infrastructure.
If Nurgul Vatansever knows one thing to be true, it’s this: healthcare providers deserve support.
Nurgul joined Beckman Coulter Diagnostics as the Vice President for Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa after a career that spanned various cultures and geographies. With a mission to create purpose-driven organizations that serve healthcare providers, she focuses on building high-growth and high-performing teams with a specific emphasis on immaculate execution.
An Electrical and Electronic engineer by training with an MBA degree, Nurgul has always been inspired by doctors and healthcare professionals, which led her to the healthcare industry. Starting her career as the first female engineer at Hitachi Medical Systems in Turkey, she has since experienced many cultures, moving across Russia, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Her 25-year career in the healthcare market has offered her diverse opportunities that have enhanced her leadership agility, resilience, and adaptability.
At Beckman Coulter Diagnostics, Nurgul leads a diverse region with the mission to enhance support for healthcare providers through cutting-edge diagnostic solutions. Her role involves not just the development and execution of strategic plans across various markets but also driving growth and ensuring a financial performance that aligns with Beckman Coulter’s overall business objectives.
Our team recently spoke with Nurgul, who emphasizes the importance of innovation in diagnostics that goes hand-in-hand with a dedication to patient care.
Interviewer: According to you, what are the main challenges and opportunities for the diagnostics sector in EEMEA?
Nurgul: The EEMEA region (Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa) presents substantial growth opportunities. These are driven by increasing healthcare investments, a growing awareness among the population about the benefits of early disease detection, and improvements in healthcare infrastructure. We actively seek collaborations among healthcare providers, government entities, and private lab chains to foster knowledge and drive demand for diagnostics solutions in EEMEA.
However, the region also poses certain challenges. Some countries have limited access to quality healthcare due to constraints in infrastructure, funding, and geographical barriers, which can cause delays in providing diagnostic solutions. The regulatory landscape is also constantly changing, necessitating swift adaptation on our part.
Nonetheless, our dedicated team is committed to excelling and maintaining our competitive edge in the market. We strive to provide innovative solutions that improve healthcare outcomes in the EEMEA region.
Interviewer: Could you please share the origin story of Beckman Coulter Diagnostics? Are there any key milestones you’d like to highlight?
Nurgul: The legacy of Beckman Coulter began in 1935 when Dr. Arnold Beckman introduced the world’s first commercial pH meter. This invention quickly found applications across various fields, including science, industry, and healthcare.
In 1948, another significant development took place. Dr. Wallace Coulter introduced the revolutionary “Coulter Principle,” which automated hematology by electronically counting and sizing particles.
As the years passed, Beckman Coulter emerged as a global leader in clinical diagnostics. We’ve contributed to healthcare advancements through innovative solutions like the DxH 900 Hematology Analyzer, scalable automation options such as the DxA 5000 and DxA 5000 fit, and the recent DxI 9000 Immunoassay Analyzer.
The success of Beckman Coulter can be attributed to the visionary contributions of three remarkable individuals: Dr. Arnold O. Beckman, Ph.D., and brothers Wallace and Joseph Coulter, who have left a permanent mark on the fields of science and medicine.
Interviewer: Please elaborate on the exclusive products/services/solutions offered by Beckman Coulter. What makes your company’s offerings unique compared to competitors in the diagnostics field?
Nurgul: In the EEMEA region, our primary focus is on improving patient outcomes and driving advancements in diagnostic testing.
Beckman Coulter differentiates itself in the diagnostics field through its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. We offer cutting-edge diagnostic instruments that use advanced technology to deliver accurate and reliable results, enhancing patient care.
Our comprehensive testing menu covers various clinical applications in immunoassay, chemistry, hematology, microbiology, and blood banking.
This allows us to provide healthcare professionals with the necessary diagnostic information to improve patient outcomes. In addition, our integrated solutions optimize laboratory processes, reduce errors, and increase productivity.
We pride ourselves on offering exceptional customer support throughout the customer journey. Our team of experts is always available for service and application support, as well as for providing training and educational assistance.
Interviewer: Being at the helm of the company, what are your prominent roles and responsibilities?
Nurgul: At Beckman Coulter, we lead with DBS (Danaher Business Systems) principles that focus on continuous improvement in our day-to-day work.
Leading such a diverse region, my responsibilities include the development and execution of a strategic plan across various markets. This involves driving growth and achieving optimal financial performance in alignment with Beckman Coulter’s overall business goals.
A key priority is team leadership, where I strive to foster a positive and inclusive culture through clear guidance and objectives. Operational excellence is also crucial, ensuring efficient and effective business processes while managing risk and maintaining compliance.
Interviewer: What leadership style do you employ to guide the company toward ongoing success?
Nurgul: My leadership style has evolved over the years and is focused on fostering a collaborative and empowering work environment. I value fact-based decision-making and encourage a mindset of continuous improvement.
Ultimately, my aim is to inspire and guide the team towards sustained success by focusing on empowerment and results.
Interviewer: Throughout your career, you’ve received notable awards and recognition for your achievements. Could you share some of these with us?
Nurgul: I’ve been fortunate to gain diverse experience in the healthcare industry, both regionally and within various organizations. These experiences have offered me valuable opportunities to learn from different situations and individuals.
I’m proud to have received high recognition in my field and beyond. These accomplishments are a direct result of the hard work and collaborative efforts of my team.
Interviewer: What challenges did you face in your career journey? How did you tackle them?
Nurgul: Being a female leader in the EEMEA region presented its own set of challenges. However, I learned early on to view each challenge as an opportunity for growth.
Your peers and advocates will unite and uplift you during difficult times. My one piece of advice to young female leaders is to never give up! You will find your path and shine even brighter.
Interviewer: Tell us about your team. How do you foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within your organization?
Nurgul: A strong team serves as a foundation for personal and professional growth. I’m fortunate to lead a robust and impactful team. I believe in fostering a culture of accountability, trust, and open dialogue of communication.
The key is to stay connected at different levels to ensure transparency. By encouraging team members to express their ideas and viewpoints, we can tap into the power of collective intelligence and spur innovation.
Interviewer: You are a prominent woman leader in the healthcare field. What advice would you give to aspiring female leaders who wish to follow in your footsteps?
Nurgul: As a female leader in healthcare, I would advise aspiring women in the workforce to believe in themselves and actively seek growth opportunities. Embrace challenges as they come and develop your resilience. I suggest building supportive networks and fostering those relationships. We need to support those who are rising.
Furthermore, it’s always important to advocate for work-life balance. I’ve been inspired by many women in my career. From them, I believe that aspiring female leaders can pave their own path to success, making a significant impact in the healthcare field and beyond.
Interviewer: What are your predictions for the future of healthcare in the EEMEA region? What emerging technologies or trends do you see shaping the industry?
Nurgul: The future of healthcare in the EEMEA region is promising. We’re seeing the exploration and expected growth of emerging trends such as digital health solutions. These include telemedicine, remote patient monitoring, and mobile health applications. Artificial intelligence (AI) is set to enhance efficiency and accuracy in healthcare, particularly through precision or personalized medicine.
Moreover, we are seeing traction in preventive care with a shift towards healthy lifestyles and wellness programs. These factors rely on timely and accurate clinical data for improved decision-making by physicians and patients.
Interviewer: How do you manage to have a perfect work-life balance? What are your hobbies/interests?
Nurgul: Achieving a balance between career, personal life, and passions is an ongoing challenge for many leaders. I strive to manage these responsibilities by setting priorities and boundaries, effectively managing my time, seeking support, and delegating tasks.
Practicing self-care is an integral part of my personal life. I make it a point to spend quality time with my family and enjoy daily walks in my neighborhood. Embracing flexibility and adaptability, and setting realistic expectations are crucial.
It’s important to remember that achieving perfect balance is not always possible, and it’s essential to be compassionate with oneself. The focus should be on finding a rhythm that aligns with one’s values and priorities, allowing for fulfillment and harmony in all aspects of life.
Interviewer: Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers, a message of encouragement, a specific call to action, or any other wisdom you’d like to impart?
Nurgul: Stay dedicated, resilient, and compassionate throughout your career journey. Embrace your role with confidence and humility, knowing that you’re not only supporting your team but also making a significant impact on patients’ lives.
Prioritize self-care and personal development to better support others. Keep up to date with the latest trends and innovations. Keep pushing forward, knowing you are making a positive difference.
Quotes
“One piece of advice I can give to young female leaders, don’t give up! You will find your path to shine even brighter.”
“Embrace your role with confidence and humility knowing you are not only supporting your team but also impacting patients.”
Also Read: Top 10 Most Influential Leaders in Healthcare, 2024.
