The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) confirmed Billy Tauzin to succeed Alan Holmer as president and chief executive.
Tauzin, a Louisiana Republican retiring after 12 terms in the House of Representatives, was long rumored to be the PhRMA’s choice for the job, but not without controversy. Tauzin’s previous role as chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which oversees the pharmaceutical industry, and his active involvement in crafting the Medicare drug benefit law have drawn criticism from Democrats and government watchdog groups.
PhRMA chairman Miles White called Tauzin “a leader that embodies action,” in a statement.
Tauzin will take up his new post on Jan. 3.