Drive DeVilbiss Co-Founder Jeff Schwartz Announces Retirement

PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y.—(October 19, 2021) Jeff Schwartz, Co‐founder of Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare, announced he is retiring effective March 31, 2022.

Schwartz has spent the last 40 years in the health care industry in a variety of executive leadership and industry advocacy positions. A graduate of The Ohio State University, Schwartz began his career in the home medical equipment business in New York, working for various companies before founding a distribution business which was ultimately sold to a public company.

In 2000, Schwartz co‐founded Medical Depot with several partners, which eventually became Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare. During his 22‐year tenure, he has grown the company into a global leader in home medical equipment, with over $1 billion dollars in revenue. Throughout this time, Schwartz has been a strong advocate for the industry, including his support of AAHomecare and other industry associations.

“I’m very proud to have had the privilege to guide Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare from start up to its current leadership position in the industry,” said Schwartz. “I’ve been fortunate to have developed many great relationships with co‐workers, customers and industry leaders. I appreciate the leadership and mentorship that I’ve received and have been able to pass along to others over the years. While it’s always hard to pick your exit, I feel the time is right, and I have full confidence in the strong management team that we have developed at Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare.”

“Jeff’s contribution to Drive DeVilbiss has been truly immeasurable. He has left a legacy that will live on well into our future. We wish him the most amazing next chapter with his family and friends,” said current CEO, Derek Lampert.

A detailed leadership transition plan has been developed by the company. Tony Crisitello, a 30‐year industry veteran, will be assuming Schwartz’s responsibilities as chief customer officer, NA. Additionally, Steve Wakser, a 13‐year veteran of Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare will be named SVP—Homecare for both North and South America. Schwartz will be integrally involved in executing the strategy over the next several months prior to his departure.

“Jeff Schwartz has left a lasting impression on our company and industry which cannot be replaced. I’m proud to call him a mentor, and I’m humbled to continue to lead the next chapter of our company’s commercial growth,” Crisitello commented.

Visit drivemedical.com for more information.