Exactech Welcomes New Chief Medical Officer with Extensive Experience in Orthopedics

Exactech Welcomes Dr. Richard J. Friedman as Chief Medical Officer



On July 17, 2025, Exactech, a leading medical technology company based in Gainesville, Florida, announced the appointment of Dr. Richard J. Friedman, MD, FRCSC, as their new Chief Medical Officer (CMO). This decision marks a significant step for the company as they aim to enhance clinical and regulatory support while driving innovation in orthopedics.

Dr. Friedman brings with him a wealth of experience in the field of orthopedic surgery. He was most recently the Chief of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery and a Professor at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) in Charleston. Previously, he served as the Vice Chair of Research at the same institution, showcasing his commitment to advancing medical practices through research and education. His extensive background also includes being an Adjunct Professor of Bioengineering at Clemson University, positioning him as a versatile asset for Exactech.

In his new role, Dr. Friedman will lead efforts concerning product safety, educator training for surgeons, and overall medical guidance in product development. His detailed knowledge of Exactech products, developed from years of research and clinical practice, will be instrumental in reinforcing the company's surgeon-focused culture. As Exactech President and CEO Darin Johnson highlighted, “Dr. Friedman’s expertise will have a significant impact and bolster our organization’s commitment to patient care.”

Dr. Friedman succeeds Dr. Sharat Kusuma, who has transitioned to the presidency of JointMedica, a hip arthroplasty device company collaborating with Exactech. Johnson recognized Kusuma's substantial contributions over six years, noting his leadership across various senior roles including CMO and Chief Strategy Officer. “We are excited to continue collaborating with Sharat at JointMedica,” Johnson added, emphasizing the ongoing partnership.

Dr. Friedman is board-certified in orthopedic surgery and earned his medical degree from the University of Toronto. He underwent general surgery training at renowned institutions such as Johns Hopkins and Massachusetts General Hospitals and completed a residency at Harvard's Combined Orthopedic Residency Program. His clinical fellowship at Harvard Medical School focused on joint replacement, further informing his clinical proficiency.

“It is an honor to join Exactech, a company that I have respected for years due to its innovative products and exemplary culture,” Dr. Friedman remarked. He expressed his eagerness to contribute clinical insights and education that enhance patient outcomes, reflecting his dedication to orthopedic medicine.

Friedman’s professional interests span total joint replacement for hip, knee, shoulder, and elbow, alongside specializations in shoulder and elbow disorders as well as arthroscopic surgery. He is also a pioneer in research, having founded the Orthopaedic Research Laboratory at MUSC, which has attracted over 50 research grants and led to more than 400 peer-reviewed publications. Additionally, Friedman has shared his knowledge on various platforms, presenting at over 700 medical conferences worldwide.

About Exactech


Exactech is recognized as a global leader in medical technology dedicated to empowering orthopedic surgeons with advanced implants, surgical tools, and the Active Intelligence® ecosystem of smart technologies. Their unwavering mission is to provide patients with tailored solutions to enhance mobility and improve quality of life. For more information, visit exac.com and connect with them on social media platforms like LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, and X.

Topics Health)

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