WASHINGTON — Robert Billings, senior vice president of finance, planning and special programs at the Generic Pharmaceutical Association (GPhA), is slated to retire at the end of this month.

GPhA said Wednesday that Billings will relinquish his day-to-day operational duties on June 30 but will remain involved in generic drug industry affairs by serving as special adviser to GPhA president and chief executive officer Ralph Neas.

"Bob’s contributions to the generic pharmaceutical industry over the past 20 years, and particularly his leadership and commitment to our association for the past six years, have provided immense value to our member companies," Neas said in a statement. "Bob’s experience, insight and knowledge of our business have been a reliable and continuous source of support to me and our senior management team, and I am delighted that although he is retiring from daily service he will still be available as an advisor to me on industry matters."

Prior to joining GPhA, Billings served as vice president of industry relations for Mylan Labs Inc. and before that was manager of government affairs for Apotex Corp. He began his generic industry career as a writer and editor at FDA News.

"It is impossible to adequately express my thanks to GPhA for giving me the opportunity to serve the association and its member companies for the past six years," Billings stated.