WASHINGTON — The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) has elected EMD Serono Inc. president James Hoyes and Ikaria Inc. chairman and chief executive officer Daniel Tassé to its board of directors.

"We are pleased to welcome two outstanding industry leaders, Mr. Hoyes and Mr. Tassé, to PhRMA’s board of directors," PhRMA president and CEO John Castellani said in a statement Thursday. "Their broad knowledge of the biopharmaceutical research sector will be instrumental in our continual efforts to promote patient-centered policies that support medical innovation. Such policies not only make possible the life-saving treatments of tomorrow, they support millions of American jobs today."

Hoyes was recently named president of EMD Serono, Inc. In that role, his responsibilities include driving the strategic direction of the U.S. organization as well as managing the day-to-day operations of the U.S. affiliate of Germany-based Merck KGaA. As head of the U.S. pharmaceutical business for Merck KGaA, he is also a member of several global management teams. He previously served as chief commercial officer.

According to PhRMA, Hoyes began his career at EMD Serono as vice president of marketing in neurology in February 2004. With more than 25 years of experience in the industry, he has held leadership positions at Elan, Sanofi and Sterling Drug.

Tassé has served as president and CEO of Ikaria since 2008 and was appointed chairman in 2009. Before joining Ikaria, he served as general manager of the pharmaceuticals and technologies business unit at Baxter International Inc. Earlier in his career, he held various senior management positions at GlaxoSmithKline, including vice president and regional director for Australasia.

He is a member of the Healthcare Leadership Council and the board of the Roundtable on Critical Care Policy, as well as a board member of the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO).