FLINT, Mich. — Diplomat Pharmacy Inc. has named Joel Saban as president, taking over from Paul Urick, who’s leaving the company to pursue other interests.

The nation’s largest independent specialty pharmacy said late Monday that Urick will serve as president emeritus during a 90-day transition period.

Joel Saban

Saban had served as executive vice president of pharmacy operations at Catamaran Corp. from June 2010 to January 2016, overseeing a staff of about 3,200 employees in the company’s retail, mail and specialty operations, as well as cost-of-goods contracting and vendor relations. Before that, Saban was the senior vice president of industry relations at CVS Caremark from 1997 until 2010, where he was responsible for directing brand pharmaceutical industry relations, including contract negotiations.

“After following Diplomat’s success for several years, I am honored to join their team,” Saban said in a statement. “Diplomat continues to transform in this rapidly evolving industry, and I am committed to their strategies, continued growth, and emphasis on services for patients and partners.”

Saban also is a member of the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy and the Pharmaceutical Care Management Association.

“Joel’s leadership credentials and strategic thinking make him the right person to help execute Diplomat’s road map and drive sustainable growth. He comes to Diplomat with a proven track record across the entire value chain of our business,” Diplomat chairman and chief executive officer Phil Hagerman stated.

“I look forward to partnering with Joel and our talented senior leadership team to accelerate our strategic plan,” he added. “We remain focused on driving profitable growth, with a continued emphasis on quality and innovation to deliver strong shareholder returns over the long term.”

Urick was promoted to president at Diplomat last fall. He succeeded Gary Kadlec, who retired.

“During his tenure, Paul has served us in multiple leadership roles since he joined Diplomat with the acquisition of Burman’s Specialty Pharmacy in June 2015 and has provided decisive, strategic leadership that continues to benefit our patients and our partners,” Hagerman commented. “We want to thank Paul for his significant contribution and commitment to the company.”