SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Joe Willaman has been appointed associate vice president of strategic accounts, a newly created position, at Smith Drug Co.

Joe Willaman

The pharmaceutical distributor said Tuesday that, in the role, Willaman will partner with regional chains to help them realize the benefits of Smith Drug’s array of products and services.

“I am looking forward to the opportunity to lead this growth initiative,” Willaman stated. “Smith Drug Co. and Burlington Drug Co. are known for the excellent service and support it gives to all of its customers, and I intend to see that our regional chain customers receive that same level of attention.”

Previously, Willaman served as executive director of pricing and strategic programs at Smith Drug. He joined the company in November 2015 as senior director of strategic pricing and programs.

“Joe joined our team two years ago and has made a significant impact on our business,” commented Jeff Foreman, president of Smith Drug and Burlington Drug. “Joe’s experience in strategic programs are a natural fit for this market segment. He was integral in developing our pricing optimization program, which is a tremendous benefit for all of our customers.”

Before coming to Smith Drug, Willaman spent more than four years at McKesson Corp., most recently as director of strategic pricing and inventory management and, prior to that, serving as senior manager of the generics program for retail national accounts and mail order. He joined McKesson from Cardinal Health Inc., where he was a senior marketing specialist.