ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The National Association of Chain Drug Stores has named Thomas O’Donnell vice president of federal government affairs.

O’Donnell, who most recently served as the chief of staff for Rep. Steve Rothman (D., N.J.), is slated to join the association on July 9.

“We are thrilled that Tom will soon join NACDS’ highly regarded and highly effective government affairs and public policy team,” NACDS president and chief executive officer Steve Anderson says. “Tom’s extensive legislative and political experience position him exceedingly well to serve as NACDS’ chief legislative advocate for community pharmacy.”

O’Donnell comes to the association with a long record of legislative experience. Prior to heading Rothman’s staff, he was chief of staff to Reps. Phil Hare (D., Ill.) and Rush Holt (D., N.J.).

Also, O’Donnell served as a professional staff member on the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and held legislative positions with Reps. Lane Evans (D., Ill.) and Patricia Schroeder (D., Colo.).

“In this key role, Tom will spearhead the strategic direction for and overall management of NACDS’ federal legislative advocacy program, including serving as a resource and advocate on Capitol Hill, and advancing the association’s grassroots and political affairs activities,” Anderson explains. “Tom understands the dynamics of politics and policy and will work to enhance NACDS’ positions on issues that impact community pharmacy and patient care.”