
Healthcare Veteran Robert Woolley to Succeed Andy Xilas as CEO
Chicago, IL, September 2, 2025 -- HuFriedyGroup, a global leader in dental instrument innovation, infection prevention, and practice optimization solutions, today announced a leadership transition: Chief Executive Officer Andy Xilas will be stepping down, and veteran MedTech executive Robert Woolley has been appointed as his successor.
With over 35 years of experience at HuFriedyGroup, Xilas has served as CEO since January 2021. As CEO, Xilas guided the organization through a pivotal period of transformation, innovation, and growth. Most notably, he led the company through its divestiture from STERIS plc to become a standalone global dental products company. Under Andy’s leadership, the company expanded its global footprint, acquired and integrated new dental brands, and strengthened its position as a trusted partner to dental professionals. Xilas will remain involved with the organization and serve as a Senior Advisor to the board.
Incoming CEO Robert Woolley brings two decades of global medical device and dental experience. He brings deep industry knowledge, global expertise, and a track record of growth to lead HuFriedyGroup in its next phase of accelerated growth and innovation. He joins HuFriedyGroup from Sonova Group, where he most recently served as Group Vice President of Hearing Instruments. Previously, he held key executive roles at Straumann Group, including Executive Vice President for North America and Western Europe.
Woolley also held senior positions at Medtronic, Trivascular, and Stryker, earning recognition for driving commercial excellence, portfolio innovation, and operational performance across U.S. and European markets. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Brigham Young University and an MBA from Harvard University.
About HuFriedyGroup
HuFriedyGroup is a global Dental Solutions Company and trusted partner to dental professionals worldwide. As a leader in dental instruments, infection prevention, instrument management, and practice efficiency, HuFriedyGroup delivers high-quality products and beyond-the-chair services designed to help clinicians be The Best in Practice.
With a legacy of innovation, a comprehensive portfolio, and deep clinical expertise, HuFriedyGroup plays a vital role in advancing modern dentistry. Founded in 1908 and headquartered in Chicago, the company distributes products in over 100 countries and is supported by over 1,500 employees across more than 20 global manufacturing facilities and offices.
Learn more at www.hufriedygroup.com.
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