Former NCPA executive joins GPhA

WASHINGTON — The former top executive of the Generic Pharmaceutical Association may have gone to work for the National Community Pharmacists Association, but the generic drug industry trade group got one of the independent pharmacy group’s executives as well.

The GPhA announced the appointment of John Coster as SVP government affairs, effective Feb. 14. Coster previously worked at the NCPA and has worked on pharmacy and healthcare policy issues for more than 25 years. Former GPhA president and CEO Kathleen Jaeger was appointed as EVP and CEO of the NCPA in November 2010, after having left the GPhA last year.

The GPhA said its hiring of Coster was part of its 2011 strategic plan to expand its presence in Washington and advocate for generic drugs and follow-on biologics. Currently, the organization has not appointed a new president and CEO.

“John’s exceptional Hill experience and legislative expertise comes to us at a time when the cost-savings potential of generic pharmaceuticals has never been more important, both on the federal and state levels,” GPhA interim executive director Bob Billings said. “We are delighted to have this seasoned and respected professional on our team.”