The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently welcomed three new leaders to the agency, marking a significant step in filling the leadership void left by recent departures. In an email to staff on Monday, FDA Commissioner Marty Makary announced the arrival of Lowell Zeta as the new deputy commissioner for strategic initiatives, Timothy Schell as the acting director for the Center for Veterinary Medicine, and Craig Taylor as the acting chief information officer.
Lowell Zeta brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having previously served as a senior adviser to the commissioner during the first Trump administration. Zeta played a key role in the FDA’s 2020 initiative to evaluate its response to the Covid-19 pandemic and improve its readiness for future public health crises. Prior to joining the FDA, Zeta was a partner at the law firm Hogan Lovells. He has already begun working closely with Commissioner Makary to assemble a strong leadership team.
Timothy Schell, the new acting director for the Center for Veterinary Medicine, also joins the FDA with a strong background in the field. Schell’s expertise in veterinary medicine will be instrumental in overseeing the regulation of animal drugs, food additives, and other products to ensure the safety and efficacy of veterinary products.
Craig Taylor, the agency’s new acting chief information officer, will play a crucial role in overseeing the FDA’s information technology infrastructure. In an increasingly digital world, Taylor’s leadership will be vital in ensuring that the FDA’s IT systems are secure, efficient, and up-to-date.
These new appointments come at a critical time for the FDA, as the agency works to navigate the challenges of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and address emerging public health threats. The arrival of Zeta, Schell, and Taylor will help to bolster the agency’s leadership team and position the FDA for continued success in its mission to protect and promote public health.
As the FDA continues to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of healthcare and technology, the addition of these new leaders will be instrumental in driving innovation and ensuring the safety and efficacy of the products and services regulated by the agency. We look forward to seeing the impact that Lowell Zeta, Timothy Schell, and Craig Taylor will have on the FDA and the broader healthcare industry in the months and years to come.
