By Business & Finance 
Mag O’Keeffe is the Vice President of Global Additive Technologies at Stryker, a worldwide leader in medical technology. Stryker is dedicated to delivering innovative products and services that are designed to elevate patient care and drive improved healthcare outcomes across the globe.
What was your first job?
My very first job was tending the counter in our local post office and grocery shop in Ballyporeen, County Tipperary while in school. Working on weekends and during the summer holidays allowed me to earn some pocket money.
Having graduated from Cork Institute of Technology with a degree in mechanical engineering, I was lucky enough to join Stryker at the very start of my professional career almost 26 years ago and I have not looked back. I began my career with Stryker as a production technician at our Springhill facility when it was only a green site start up. In those early days it was my role to install and get the machines up and running, write the machine programmes and production protocols, and train the production staff.
What pushed you to pursue a career in this field?
My journey into the MedTech sector was heavily influenced by my childhood as I grew up in a house where anything mechanical could be pulled apart or fixed. My dad and brothers always tinkered with and raced cars and would modify them for various ‘performance’ outputs. One memory stands out in particular – When I was 13, we had a buggy adapted from an old car so we didn’t have to walk to the school bus. Needless to say, it took some aptitude in trouble shooting to make sure it got us to our destination! That was fun to me.
What would you regard as your greatest achievement to date?
In my home life, my children are my greatest achievement, and I am inspired by the kind, resilient and remarkable individuals that they have become. In my professional career, I have been fortunate to be a part of Stryker’s mission to make healthcare better. It has been a privilege to witness and contribute to Stryker’s growth over the past 26 years in Ireland, where Stryker now employs over 5,500 people. Stryker’s teams in Ireland have been at the forefront of technologies which have shaped modern healthcare, particularly in the field of 3D printing. Leading in an organisation which really makes a difference to the lives of patients and healthcare professionals around the globe is something that I am very proud of.
Career wise, would you do anything differently?
I don’t think I would. Albeit challenging at times, the experiences and opportunities afforded to me throughout my career with Stryker have shaped the perspective I have now. If I could offer my younger self some advice, I would encourage her to believe in herself more, trust her own abilities and take the plunge a bit quicker on some things.
In one sentence, how would you define success?
It’s personal. To me, success is doing what you love well and having your purpose. It’s about self-growth — whatever that looks like. Whether its pushing past your fears, learning from failures, becoming the best version of yourself, having the courage to go for it, or resilience to rise after a setback, and enjoying the journey in a life well lived.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
The best piece of advice I have ever received is to have confidence and back yourself. In my early days with Stryker, I had a manager who had so much confidence in me and I always wondered what he saw that I didn’t. I now understand that I was hindered by imposter syndrome and a lack of self-confidence – something that many women in STEM can relate to. If we wait until we feel ready, until fear disappears, or until everything is perfectly aligned, opportunities will be missed. The truth is that growth happens when we take action despite the fear. Confidence isn’t the starting point—it’s the result of pushing forward, failing, learning, and trying again.
How do you handle adversity?
Adversity is part of life. Instead of wasting energy wishing things were different, I acknowledge the challenge and focus on what I can. It’s about mindset, resilience and perspective. If you accept there will be adversity, you can face it with good mental positivity. In STEM, the key is to keep moving forward, even if it’s just one small step at a time, and always remember each challenge brings growth. Innovation is not simply about building on what already exists; it’s about imagining how we can make the greatest possible impact for patients and healthcare providers.
How do you motivate yourself and your staff?
I remind myself that if the patient were a member of my own family, they’d want me to persevere. They’d hope for my team to stay engaged, find fulfilment in their work, and give their best effort every day. Stryker’s culture is designed to inspire creativity and collaboration, ensuring that innovation and curiosity thrive. In addition, we invest in our employees so that people can be their best selves and, in turn, bring their best selves to work.
How do you relax?
I feel most at ease when enjoying a great book or movie. Spending time with family, getting fresh air and plenty of sunshine helps me unwind. And whenever possible, I love to travel!
What is your favourite (non-business) book?
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. It’s a beautifully written novel about following your dreams, trusting the journey, and finding meaning in life’s challenges.
What are your aspirations for the future of the business/organisation?
My aspirations would be for Stryker’s continued growth through world class health products that are innovative, giving the best patient outcomes with minimal intervention.
I aspire to continue supporting Stryker’s mission to make healthcare better by leading teams which dare to think differently and share a common passion for improving lives. I’m particularly excited to contribute to Stryker’s advancements in disruptive technologies and help drive the transformation of manufacturing processes, creating custom devices tailored to individual patients.
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