Heather Roy is to Chair Medicines New Zealand, the industry association for innovative pharmaceutical companies in New Zealand.

Mrs Roy will take up the role of Chair of the industry body on 1 February 2012.

"We are extremely pleased to have appointed such a high calibre candidate to this important position. I believe that Heather will help us take our efforts to improve New Zealand patients' access to innovative medicines to the next level," Medicines New Zealand General Manager Kevin Sheehy says.

"Having spent almost a decade in politics, including responsibility for health in opposition, combined with her previous work in the field of clinical research, Mrs Roy's skills and experience are closely aligned with the association's mission to improve health outcomes for New Zealanders through equitable access to quality medicines.

"We wish to thank Medicine New Zealand's retiring Chair Mr Lex Henry, for steering the organisation through a period of significant change. His contribution to Medicines New Zealand has ensured we have remained on a steady path of progression over the past two years. Medicines New Zealand is in a stronger position because of Mr Henry's input and guidance," Mr Sheehy says.

 Heather Roy says she is delighted to have been appointed Chair of Medicines New Zealand. 

"This position with the research-based pharmaceutical industry is an opportunity to combine my experience in government and in the health sector, and my previous career in the clinical trials field.

 "The pharmaceutical industry faces challenges both internationally and in New Zealand.  I'm looking forward to working with the industry to promote a quality research environment and to ensure pharmaceuticals are available, accessible and affordable for all New Zealanders," Heather Roy says.