ADVOCACY, ASSOCIATIONS

Robert Zirkelbach has been named senior VP of communications for the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, effective May 5.

Zirkelbach, 33, will oversee communications initiatives supporting PhRMA’s advocacy activities and public-policy initiatives.

He comes to the organization from America’s Health Insurance Plans where, as VP of strategic communications, he led media relations, policy communications and advocacy efforts, including serving as spokesman for the health insurance industry. Before joining AHIP, Zirkelbach worked as press secretary to former U.S. Rep Jim Nussle (R-Iowa).