#United States #Arlington #NACDS #CARE Pharmacies #Michael Wysong

Michael R. Wysong Appointed President and CEO of NACDS

The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) has made a significant leadership change as it announces Michael R. Wysong as the newly elected President and Chief Executive Officer. His appointment will take effect on December 1, 2026, succeeding Steven C. Anderson, who has led the association for twenty transformative years.

A Leader for the Future

Following a competitive selection process, Wysong was chosen by the NACDS Board of Directors. He comes with a robust background, having served as the CEO of CARE Pharmacies since 2010, a network that ranks among the top 20 pharmacy chains in the United States. Known for his strong advocacy and deep industry knowledge, Wysong is poised to lead NACDS into a future that emphasizes innovation and member value.

Wysong has made notable contributions to healthcare and pharmacy throughout his career, and his experience as NACDS's Chair from April 2023 to April 2024 speaks to his engagement with fellow members. Under his leadership, CARE Pharmacies has seen impressive growth, expanding to over 200 locations and achieving close to $2 billion in annual sales.

Shaping the Future of Pharmacy

As NACDS embarks on this new chapter, it does so with a strong strategic framework aimed at shaping the future of pharmacy. Wysong has committed to focusing on enhancing care delivery and health wellness strategies, ensuring that pharmacies remain accessible and reliable healthcare destinations for communities.

"This is a defining moment for pharmacy; NACDS is ready to lead it, and Mike will hit the ground running," said NACDS Chair David B. Warner. The organization is positioned to focus on two key areas: shaping the future of pharmacy and strengthening return on investment for members.

Building on a Strong Legacy

Steven Anderson, who will retire at the end of 2026, has laid a sturdy foundation for NACDS during his tenure. Warner commended Anderson for creating a sustainable environment fostering advocacy strength and trusted partnerships. Wysong's leadership will build on this legacy and carry the momentum forward, addressing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in healthcare.

Wysong’s Vision

Expressing gratitude for the opportunity, Wysong stated, "It is an honor to be entrusted with the leadership at NACDS. We are at a pivotal moment in our industry, and I am committed to keeping our members and communities at the center of our work." He emphasizes his dedication to improving the economics of pharmacy and expanding its role in patient care — particularly vital in light of the current healthcare landscape.

He also recognizes that collaborative relationships across the pharmacy sector, supplier networks, and healthcare partnerships will be fundamental in achieving these goals. Wysong envisions a pharmacy sector that plays a crucial role in meeting the ever-increasing health and wellness needs of consumers.

Insights and Future Prospects

Since assuming his role at CARE Pharmacies, Wysong has received various accolades, including being recognized in the "Hot 100" retailers by the National Retail Federation. His contributions have marked him as one of the driving forces behind advancements in specialty pharmacy and competitive strategies.

In addition to his impressive career achievements, Wysong holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the Virginia Military Institute and an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Mount St. Mary's University. As NACDS gears up for the future, the industry looks forward to the direction Wysong will take the organization, one that promises collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to community-focused healthcare.

By guiding NACDS with a member-driven approach, Wysong embodies a visionary leader ready to tackle both current issues and future developments in pharmacy care, ensuring that pharmacies remain a trusted, frontline resource in American healthcare.