Stryker leads the way: Anngrove site first to get accredited under the new KeepWell Mark™ standards

The medical devices industry provides rewarding career opportunities, employing over 48,000 people in Ireland. Attracting and retaining talent is essential, requiring a diverse, safe, and inclusive workplace. Stryker, a global leader in medical technology and one of Cork’s largest private-sector employers, prioritises employee wellbeing. Recently, Stryker’s Anngrove facility became the first to achieve accreditation under the new KeepWell standards, driven by a proactive wellbeing strategy and strong employee engagement. 
  
Leadership and team collaboration drive Anngrove’s success 
The revised KeepWell framework, incorporating two new pillars — Inclusion & Belonging and Talent Support & Development — requires a robust three-stage process: Evidence Review, Onsite Assessment, and Post-Assessment Reporting. At Anngrove, the journey began by securing leadership buy-in and appointing pillar sponsors to drive site-wide collaboration. Ahana Maharaj, EHS Engineer, led the evidence-gathering effort, coordinating with multiple teams across the site.

Anngrove’s evidence-gathering process was streamlined as key wellbeing initiatives were already in place, taking just four months. Ahana noted, “The framework allowed us to benchmark, prioritise continuous improvement, and integrate key recommendations into our strategy.” The onsite assessment involved interviews with key members of staff and a tour of the facilities.  

 
Strong results and clear impact 
On 12 September 2024, Anngrove was awarded with the KeepWell Mark following a successful first assessment under the updated framework. This process fostered teamwork, improved communication, and created a unified approach to its Wellbeing Strategy and Programme. Additionally, promoting available services increased employee engagement and awareness.
 
“At Anngrove, employee wellbeing is central to our culture and vital to our success. We are honoured to have achieved the Ibec KeepWell Mark, making us the first company to receive this accreditation under this new framework. Achieving the Ibec KeepWell Mark under the new framework sets a strong standard for workplace wellbeing, and we are dedicated to continuously and proactively improving employee wellbeing for everyone in Anngrove,” Michael Hayes, Site Leader, Stryker Anngrove.