May 29, 2024
The Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Sharon Pearce as the new Vice President, Lead of Government Affairs, whose tenure began on May 28. In this pivotal role, Pearce will be responsible for developing and implementing effective government affairs strategies to promote the Association’s mission and educating congressional and agency staff on health policy issues affecting PPTA members and the patients who rely on plasma-derived therapies.
Pearce offers a wealth of experience in patient advocacy and health policy at associations and foundations. Prior to PPTA, Pearce served as the Senior Vice President, Government Relations, at the National Kidney Foundation (NKF). There, she led policy and advocacy activities on behalf of the 37 million adults in America with kidney disease. At NKF, she also achieved several legislative successes, including enactment of the Comprehensive Immunosuppressive Drug Coverage for Kidney Transplant Patients Act and the Securing the US Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network Act of 2023, increases in federal funding for kidney related initiatives, and enactment of more than 30 kidney related legislative measures in the states.
In addition to her impressive experience at NKF, Pearce has held leadership positions at the National Home Infusion Association and the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, among others, where she led policy initiatives, managed legislative strategies and campaigns, represented organizations before Congress and federal agencies, and built out grassroots advocacy efforts. Pearce also honed Congressional relationships and forte while serving in increasingly senior roles for three Members of Congress.
“Sharon brings DC insider acumen and legislative savvy to the PPTA team. In this new role, she will help shape a policy landscape that ensures our patients have access to the lifesaving medications they need,” said President and CEO Anita Brikman.
On joining PPTA, Pearce stated, “Plasma-derived therapies are essential for the health and well-being of so many people. I look forward to advocating for a healthy plasma ecosystem by raising awareness of the ongoing need for plasma donation, medical manufacturing, and patient access.”
Pearce holds a B.A. in Political Science and Theater Arts from Gettysburg College.
For more information about PPTA and its initiatives, please visit www.pptaglobal.org. For information on future career opportunities with PPTA, follow PPTA (North America and Europe, respectively) on LinkedIn.