John J. Castellani to Lead PhRMA as New President & CEO
Washington, D.C. (July 13, 2010) - Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) today announced that John J. Castellani will assume the role of President and Chief Executive Officer, effective September 1, 2010. Mr. Castellani joins PhRMA after more than nine years as President and CEO of Business Roundtable, a leading association of corporate chief executive officers. He will succeed former PhRMA President and CEO Billy Tauzin, who transitioned to a role as senior advisor earlier this year.
Mr. Castellani has extensive experience in business, public affairs and government relations. As head of the Business Roundtable, Mr. Castellani has worked along side the nation's leading CEOs and with Members of Congress and Administration officials to drive economic growth and create opportunities for American workers and business.
"This is an exciting time for our industry, which is leading the way in providing patient-centered health solutions," said Pfizer Chairman and CEO and PhRMA Board Chairman Jeff Kindler. "At this critical moment, it's important that we have the highest standard of leadership in this position. And we have that in John. John is the gold standard, and I'm extremely pleased that he will lead our team."
"In John, PhRMA is getting a President and CEO with exceptional policy-making experience and integrity," said David Brennan, President and CEO of AstraZeneca and head of PhRMA's search committee. "His experience in coalition building and strong reputation of working across the political divide set him apart. He will contribute mightily to our mission in a time of dynamic change."
Prior to Business Roundtable, Mr. Castellani served in leading positions at Tenneco Inc., National Association of Manufacturers and TRW Inc. He began his career as an environmental scientist at General Electric.
"The pharmaceutical industry touches millions of people around the world. The industry's work saves and extends people's lives everyday," said Mr. Castellani. "As U.S. health care reform is implemented, I look forward to working with the dedicated people of the industry, public officials and other key stakeholders in the health care community to ensure that the benefits of the legislation help the most Americans possible."
Mr. Castellani received his undergraduate degree from Union College in Schenectady, NY. Currently, he serves on its Board of Trustees and as a member of The Economic Club of Washington, D.C.