WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 12, 2023) – The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) today announced that Elizabeth Carpenter will join the organization as executive vice president for Policy and Research. 

Carpenter currently serves as president of Avalere Health. She has spent nearly 20 years working on health care policy, including through leadership roles with McKenna Long & Aldridge and the New America Foundation and as legislative aide to former United States Senator Lincoln Chafee.

“I am delighted to have Elizabeth join our team,” said PhRMA President and CEO Stephen J. Ubl. "She’s not only a leading expert on health care policy, but she also knows what it takes to successfully navigate the complex legislative and regulatory environment. Her depth of knowledge and experience are critical assets as we continue to push affordability reforms to benefit patients and push back on threats against biopharmaceutical innovation.”

As head of PhRMA’s Policy and Research department, Carpenter will lead the development and implementation of public policies that encourage the development of new treatments and help ensure medicines are accessible and affordable for patients. Her team is also responsible for engaging in a wide range of research in support of the organization’s advocacy goals. She will begin her tenure at PhRMA on September 5.

“New therapies are transforming the way we treat diseases and making a difference in the everyday lives of patients,” said Carpenter. “At the same time, too many people cannot afford or access their medicines. I look forward to working with the PhRMA team and its members to protect current and future innovation."

Carpenter will succeed Jennifer Bryant, who is retiring from her position after a 17-year career with PhRMA. Jenny joined PhRMA’s policy and research team in 2006 and has led the department since 2019. She has helped shape the organization’s policy priorities during numerous legislative and regulatory changes, including implementation of the landmark Medicare Part D Prescription Drug program, the Affordable Care Act and the Inflation Reduction Act. 

“We’ve all come to rely on Jenny’s deep policy and strategic insight, as well as her unwavering commitment to patients, the industry and our organization,” said Ubl. “Jenny has provided invaluable support and counsel through many important policy debates. I can’t thank her enough for her years of service, and we wish her all the best as she begins this next chapter.”