WASHINGTON — Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) has named John Castellani its new president and chief executive officer, effective September 1.

Castellani will join the trade group after more than nine years as president and CEO of the Business Roundtable, an association of corporate chief executive officers.

Castellani will succeed former PhRMA president and CEO Billy Tauzin, who transitioned to a role as senior advisor earlier this year. Castellani has extensive experience in business, public affairs and government relations.

As head of the Business Roundtable, Castellani has worked closely with the nation’s leading CEOs and with Congress and administration officials to drive economic growth and create opportunities for American workers and business.

"This is an exciting time for our industry, which is leading the way in providing patient-centered health solutions," said Pfizer chairman and CEO and PhRMA board chairman Jeff Kindler. "At this critical moment, it’s important that we have the highest standard of leadership in this position. And we have that in John. John is the gold standard, and I’m extremely pleased that he will lead our team."