- Clinic Manager
Department of Orthopedics, WashU Medicine
Since his promotion in 2023 to clinic manager for Sports Medicine Services in the Department of Orthopedics, Matt Berning has exemplified how building strong relationships can positively impact WashU’s missions. Berning believes in investing time to understand what makes each team member unique, including their passions and personal interests, all while he supports them in the clinic each day.
“Our conversations often go beyond work-related topics, discussing families, hobbies, and pets, which helps build genuine connections and trust. This culture fosters respect, responsibility, and a sense of purpose, accountability, and inclusion among team members. My aim is that this positive dynamic translates into better care for our patients.”
Matthew Berning, clinic manager
WashU Medicine Orthopedics not only serves the St. Louis and larger communities, including WashU employees, but they are also the chosen medical providers for the St. Louis Blues and St. Louis CITY SC professional sporting teams. Despite the fast-paced, high-stress environment required to meet all their patients’ needs, Berning strives to improve his team’s culture to better value work-life balance. He has worked to align the culture of passion and drive for success while encouraging a healthy work-life balance. For every team member, he has taken time to talk and figure out their individual needs. Some staff now have flexible schedules, work four ten-hour shifts or work from home when providers are in the operating room.
“The team knows that we are here for each other and help each other when we need,” Berning said. “They also know that it is healthy to have time away and time with their families as well.”
As he continues to enjoy nurturing his team’s passion for their patients and cultivating a healthy work environment, Berning remains with WashU due to several of our benefits. From the professional career development opportunities to child and employee tuition assistance to the employee assistance program, he is grateful for the resources he has for himself, his family and to help his team succeed.
“Working with some of the top sports medicine orthopedic surgeons in the county has heightened my own passion and drive for success. The opportunities for personal career development and leadership have been a huge factor that keeps me at WashU. Being selected and completing the Emerging Leaders Program has opened my eyes and helped me learn from some of the top leaders within WashU and the nation.”
Matthew Berning, clinic manager
When he isn’t working for WashU, Berning spends his time with his wife, whom he calls a ‘super-star’ and his three daughters. They like to be outdoors, watch and play sports and travel.