From scalpel to social impact: Claude Martin Jr’s journey at the AO Alliance

Picture a hand surgeon who traded his operating theater for a global stage. That’s Claude Martin Jr, whose career zigzagged like a mountain trail – from wielding surgical instruments to juggling spreadsheets, and embracing the adventures of a full-time Mister Mom. In 2010, he packed up his Canadian life and landed in Switzerland, taking the helm at AO Trauma as executive director.

Enter Rolf M. Jeker, the visionary AO CEO committed to expanding access to quality fracture care in Africa and Asia. With the AO Socio-Economic Committee (AO SEC), he helped advance fracture care education in regions where access to sophisticated care was limited. By 2015, these efforts culminated in the establishment of the AO Alliance, supported by AO and the Wyss Medical Endowment, with Martin Jr stepping into the role of managing director.
A decade later, the AO Alliance now stands as a leader of fracture care education in 30+ countries across sub-Saharan Africa and Asia.

The future? It’s as clear as a surgeon’s vision through magnifying loupes. The AO Alliance isn’t just maintaining its course – it’s sharpening its focus on sustainability, stronger partnerships, and educational excellence. We’re diving deep into communities, conducting thorough needs assessments to ensure our efforts meet their needs, and available resources.

One of our key goals is to support healthcare workers in building their careers locally, strengthening medical systems from within rather than losing skilled talent to migration. It’s about empowering dedicated professionals who are committed to serving their communities.

Looking back on his decade-long stewardship, Martin Jr shares his thoughts: “This journey has been like conducting an orchestra,” he reflects. “I’m just the conductor – it’s our network of healthcare workers across Africa and Asia who create the music. Their commitment, combined with our staff’s tireless support, is what turns our mission into melody.”