WASHINGTON, DC (January 27, 2026) – Clay Alspach has joined the Association of Clinical Research Organizations (ACRO) as its new Executive Director.
Alspach stated, “I am excited to step into the role of ACRO Executive Director. I look forward to working with the ACRO staff, the Board, and the committees in this new role. It is an honor and a privilege to step into an organization that has been steadfast in its mission to partner with clinical research and technology organizations to advance clinical research and drug development.”
For the past decade, Clay has been a principal with Leavitt Partners where he helped build and lead a number of alliances, including the Alliance for mRNA Medicines and the Sickle Cell Disease Partnership. Prior to joining Leavitt Partners, Clay served as Chief Health Counsel for Chairman Fred Upton of the U.S. House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Committee. During his time at the committee, Clay spearheaded legislative initiatives that successfully reformed the sustainable growth rate (MACRA); reauthorized FDA user fees (FDASIA); established a national system for drug supply chain security (Drug Quality and Security Act); strengthened the nation’s preparedness for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats, natural disasters, and emerging infectious diseases (Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Reauthorization Act of 2013 (PAHPRA)); and advanced medical research to foster a new era of medical innovations (21st Century Cures Act).
Prior to this service for the committee, Clay clerked for the Honorable Ronald L. Buckwalter of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania and worked as a litigator in private law practice. He also worked as a legislative clerk at the committee from 1999 to 2000 under Chairman Thomas J. Bliley (R-VA).
“Clay Alspach brings exceptional leadership to ACRO at a pivotal moment for clinical research,” said incoming ACRO Chair Sandy Kennedy of Fortrea. “His expertise and steadfast commitment to science and health will strengthen the Association’s impact to advancing policies that foster efficiency, effectiveness, and integrity in clinical trials.”
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About ACRO:
ACRO advocates as the collective voice of innovative clinical research and technology organizations to regulators and policymakers, educating stakeholders and shaping policies that foster the efficient, effective, and safe conduct of clinical research. Learn more about ACRO and sign up to receive email updates by visiting: acrohealth.org.
Media Contacts:
Erin Brown
Director, Industry Intelligence and Messaging
ebrown@acrohealth.org
Maddy Sever
Communications & Membership Associate
msever@acrohealth.org