In the ever-evolving landscape of medical systems, few leaders stand out as prominently as Jens Mittendorf, the Managing Director of DEHAS MEDICAL SYSTEMS GMBH. His journey from a Navy diver to a leading figure in the medical industry is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and visionary leadership. This article delves into his inspiring story, exploring the milestones, challenges, and philosophies that have shaped his career and the growth of DEHAS MEDICAL SYSTEMS. Jens’s story is not just about professional success but also about personal growth and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
A Serendipitous Start in the Medical Field
Jens Mittendorf’s entry into the medical field was serendipitous. “The start in the medical field happened by accident,” he recalls.
After a diving accident during his service as a navy diver, Jens was no longer able to continue in that role. The Navy offered him an opportunity to be trained as a medic, marking his first foray into the medical sector. This unexpected turn of events laid the foundation for his future career. It was a pivotal moment that redirected his path and ignited a passion for the medical field that would define his professional life.
Military Discipline Shaping Leadership
Jens’s experiences in the German Navy and Bundeswehr Central Hospital significantly influenced his leadership style. “The military is a hierarchical but transparent, strong result-based organization,” he explains.
The discipline and structure of the military, combined with an appreciation for individual strengths, helped Jens develop a leadership profile that values transparency and straightforward communication. This approach has been instrumental in building a cohesive and motivated team at DEHAS MEDICAL SYSTEMS, a company he founded 22 years ago. His military background instilled a sense of duty and precision that he carries into his business practices.
From One-Man Show to Global Enterprise
The journey to becoming the Managing Director of DEHAS MEDICAL SYSTEMS was marked by several key milestones. Jens founded the company with just 5,000 Euros, starting as a one-man show. “I had little knowledge about the market from my former jobs, but as a managing director, I was absolutely green,” he admits. However, his military skills, determination, and a bit of luck helped him grow with his tasks.
Today, DEHAS MEDICAL SYSTEMS is a thriving enterprise with a global footprint. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of seizing opportunities as they arise.
Diverse Responsibilities of a Managing Director
As the Managing Director, Jens’s role is multifaceted. “Like a facility manager, you have some day-to-day tasks, but you never know what’s up next,” he says. His responsibilities include strategic development of new markets and products, ensuring the financial stability of the company, and overseeing a diverse range of operations, from development and quality assurance to CNC manufacturing. This variety keeps his role dynamic and challenging, requiring constant adaptation and forward-thinking. Jens thrives in this environment, finding motivation in the ever-changing landscape of the medical systems industry.
Striking a Balance Between Work and Life
Maintaining a balance between professional responsibilities and personal life is crucial for Jens. He engages in team sports, particularly handball, and takes short breaks with extended weekends to relax and stay focused. His involvement with the German National Guard also helps him stay grounded and connected to his roots.
“Always remember your roots and values,” he emphasizes.
This balance is essential for his well-being and effectiveness as a leader. It allows him to recharge and bring fresh perspectives to his work. Jens believes that a well-rounded life contributes to a more productive and fulfilling career.
Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Successes
Reflecting on his career, Jens considers his transition from a navy diver to a leader in the medical industry as one of his greatest successes. “The plan was to stay as a lifetime soldier, but sometimes things change,” he notes.
Adapting to a completely different field and achieving success in it was a significant challenge, but one that he accomplished with determination and hard work. Today, he leads a successful SME with over 40 employees. His journey is a powerful reminder that challenges can be stepping stones to greater achievements and that resilience is key to overcoming obstacles.
Staying Ahead in a Competitive Industry
To keep DEHAS MEDICAL SYSTEMS at the forefront of innovation, Jens emphasizes the importance of staying informed about industry trends. “You have to speak with innovative clinics and doctors to get the best information for new trends and treatments,” he explains.
The company also collaborates with local medical universities and regularly hosts students for their master’s theses, ensuring they remain on the cutting edge of medical advancements. This proactive approach to innovation helps DEHAS MEDICAL SYSTEMS stay competitive and responsive to the evolving needs of the medical field. Jens’s commitment to continuous learning and adaptation is a cornerstone of the company’s success.
Inspiring Future Generations in the Medical Field
Jens is keenly aware of the impact his work has on future generations in the medical field. He acknowledges that while younger generations are well-educated, the drive to accomplish tasks may not be as pronounced as it was in his generation. “I fear that we will be stuck behind our capabilities,” he says, particularly for SMEs that lack the resources of larger enterprises.
Jens hopes his profile can inspire younger professionals to strive for success, showing that determination and hard work can lead to significant achievements. He believes that by setting a positive example, he can encourage the next generation to pursue their goals with passion and dedication.
A Leadership Philosophy Rooted in Action
Jens’s leadership philosophy is encapsulated in his credo: “Success is written with three letters! ACT!” He believes in being fair, transparent, energetic, and driving processes and projects forward. He also stresses the importance of teaching younger generations the value of strong principles and positive thinking.
“Belief in values is something that keeps you strong and positive,” Jens asserts. This philosophy not only guides his actions but also shapes the culture at DEHAS MEDICAL SYSTEMS, fostering an environment where employees are motivated to excel and innovate.
Guidance for Aspiring Leaders
For those aspiring to lead in the medical systems industry, Jens offers valuable advice: “Give trust to your people, lead them, and encourage them to learn and make experiences.”
Jens believes that positive leadership fosters a productive atmosphere and teamwork, ultimately freeing up time for leaders to focus on other tasks. By empowering his team, Jens creates a supportive environment where individuals can grow and contribute to the company’s success. His approach underscores the importance of trust and collaboration in achieving organizational goals.
Achievements Under Jens’s Leadership
Under Jens’s leadership, DEHAS MEDICAL SYSTEMS has achieved remarkable milestones. From its humble beginnings as a one-man show, the company now enjoys global recognition for its products. Jens has consistently invested in personnel, infrastructure, and machinery, ensuring continuous growth and innovation. The company has achieved MDR readiness and FDA clearance for most of its products and has several new innovative products in the pipeline.
“We currently have invested into two own facilities in Germany to grow further,” Jens highlights. These achievements reflect his strategic vision and commitment to excellence, positioning DEHAS MEDICAL SYSTEMS as a leader in the medical industry.
Conclusion
Jens Mittendorf’s journey is a compelling narrative of resilience, adaptability, and visionary leadership. His experiences, from the Navy to leading a successful medical systems company, offer valuable insights and inspiration for aspiring leaders. Through his transparent and disciplined approach, Jens has built a strong foundation for DEHAS MEDICAL SYSTEMS, ensuring its continued growth and success in the ever-evolving medical industry. His story serves as a powerful example of how dedication, strategic thinking, and a commitment to values can drive both personal and professional success.
