CarboMedics Inc. Gets Acquainted with Intermedics Inc.

Abstract

What a deal! Free enterprise at work. Every person was energized by the working atmosphere. Notable, as an example, was the enthusiasm of Steve Anderson, head of marketing. He was a master in personally promoting Intermedics pacemakers to surgeons and cardiologists. Pat Gordon’s portrayal of Beutel’s first run with his new mobile home, big as a Greyhound bus, created some laughs. On delivery, he jumped in declaring “I can drive this thing!” Revving up the engine, it stalled. Like a pro, he slammed it into gear—the wrong one—all in good humor. But then came reality and Beutel’s late night call to “put some engineers out of sight and make us a valve. I’ll call you later.” I lost sleep over that. But, some weeks later, a call from Jacques Schwartz—“Albert Beutel is dead.” As could be expected, the death of Albert precipitated unusual behavior across the board. I breathed a sigh of relief when the Board of Directors announced G. Russell Chambers as President and CEO. When I told GR about Beutel’s order, he froze, blinked, and pursed his lips. “Let’s think about that. Hold off. I’ll get back.” I sensed his thoughts and relaxed.