Jerry Warner

President, CooperVision Inc

Years in current role: 1 month

What was your biggest success in 2021?

With the support of our customers and employees across the world, CooperVision had a record year. We remained committed to solving the world’s toughest vision challenges through product innovation and partnerships with eye care professionals, particularly in the areas of myopia progression in children and presbyopia as people age. We also expanded our industry leadership in sustainability by introducing the first net plastic neutral contact lens. To do this while continuing to keep our teams protected in the face of the ever-evolving COVID pandemic — our highest priority — feels like the greatest achievement of all.

What are your expectations for 2022?

Our expectations are high. As an organization, we have momentum in all geographies and sectors, as we continue to make advancements in products and partnerships. Locally, we look forward to beginning the expansion of our global distribution facility in West Henrietta. And after two years of navigating the pandemic, I expect we’ll need to maintain flexibility as COVID trends and changing guidelines continue to impact our employees and customers.

What is your biggest takeaway from dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic?

There are two key learnings. First, I knew that CooperVision employees are incredibly dedicated. But witnessing their hard work throughout these trying times, and seeing the results of those efforts, was a consistent reminder that our people are a critical differentiator from our competition. Secondly, despite finding new ways to work efficiently and effectively virtually, we really miss the in-person connection. The challenges of working virtually sometimes put pressure on our company culture, connectivity, and the ability to have candid conversations. Being together to have those deeper exchanges of ideas is especially important for a company like ours, who thrives on continuous improvement — and strives to provide it in our products and services for our customers as well.

What is your favorite thing about the Rochester community?

Rochester stands out for being a compassionate community that continually rises to meet the needs of its own. I have called Rochester my home for 28 years, and this has been evident to me from day one.

If time were no issue, what would you do to help the community that you aren’t already doing?

I would like to get to a point where giving back means I am making deeper connections to people in our community, listening, and contributing in a manner that makes a difference to those I meet. I am not sure what that looks like, but I will reach out to those who can guide me.

This profile is part of Rochester Business Journal's Power 100 list for 2022. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. View the full list at rbj.net.