Torod Neptune 

SVP, Chief Communications Officer
Medtronic
US

Torod Neptune stepped down from his role heading Lenovo’s worldwide comms to join Medtronic as chief communications officer in January of 2021, meaning he has now appeared on this list leading communications for three different companies in three different sectors.

His responsibilities will include leading global brand and corporate communications and corporate marketing, reporting to newly appointed chief executive Geoff Martha.

Neptune’s move comes four years after joining Lenovo as worldwide group vice president and chief communications officer, where he spearheaded the development of the computer company’s first ever Global Diversity and Inclusion report, and the launch of the company’s philanthropic arm, the Lenovo Foundation. Before that, he spent almost seven years with Verizon, where he oversaw communications for each of the company’s major business units, rising to the role of corporate VP of corporate communications.

Can you share a moment in your career when you saw PR’s direct impact on business performance?

Annually, the role of PR in driving sales on the backs of product launches centered about big industry launch events (eg CES and MWC).

What are the communications industry’s biggest challenges and opportunities in the year ahead?

Recruiting and retaining a truly diverse workforce, particularly at the senior levels, and establishing a compelling growth/value creation/impact measurement system.

What have you most admired about the communications industry over the past year, and what has disappointed you?

How the industry is delivering against the drastic increase in expectations and influence our industry has garnered in the current post-pandemic, economic, and socio-political reality.

What work from your team are you most proud of over the past year?

Medtronic’s GI Genius, an intelligent endoscopy module, has been named to the prestigious Fortune 2022 Change The World list, which recognizes leading global companies that use the creative tools of capitalism to address society’s most pressing needs.

How have you switched off from work and maintained wellness over the past year?

Intentionally avoiding email on weekends and after hours.

Which book/movie/TV show/podcast/playlist/other cultural source has helped you get through the past year or provided inspiration?

‘Essentialism’ by Greg McKeown.

If I wasn't working in marketing/communications, I would be...

Running a coffee shop in a beach town in Portugal or Costa Rica.