ARLINGTON, Va. — John Gray, president and chief executive officer of the Healthcare Distribution Alliance (HDA), announced on Monday his retirement from the organization. Gray will remain in his position until May 2, 2020.

John Gray

Gray, who has led HDA (formerly known as the Healthcare Distribution Management Association) since 2004, is credited with restructuring and streamlining the HDA membership, which shaped the organization into a productive partner with stakeholders within and beyond the pharmaceutical supply chain. He also led the HDA advocacy team to significant federal legislative accomplishments — such as the enactment of the transformational prescription drug traceability law, the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (2013) — among others. In addition, Gray strengthened the organization’s state affairs operation to counter the growing number of supply chain-focused legislative initiatives across the country. Moreover, through his guidance, HDA took a new approach to its industry conferences and seminars, building one of the strongest educational programs in the industry.

During his tenure, Gray also oversaw HDA’s initiatives to highlight distributors’ leadership in the broader healthcare industry — from undertaking several studies on the “Role of the Distributor,” to recently launching www.HealthDelivered.org, an initiative to spotlight the value of distribution. Additionally, given the transformation of the pharmaceutical distribution industry, Gray sought a strategic rebranding of the organization; in 2016, the association announced a new brand identity as HDA.

Further, over the course of his leadership, Gray fostered a culture committed to serving its membership at the highest levels. Of note, HDA was named one of the “Best Places to Work in Virginia” for eight consecutive years.

“Over the past 15 years, John provided steady leadership in a sea of change,” said Greg Drew, chairman of the HDA board of directors and president of Value Drug Company. “The HDA executive committee and board of directors congratulate him on his many accomplishments, and we wish John the best in his future endeavors.”

Additional information on an executive search will be forthcoming.