Jason Van Pelt, J.D.
rossroads Strategies (CRS), Washington, D.C.
Executive Vice President
January 2017-present
CRS is a multi-client firm with 16 registered lobbyists providing advocacy services to a broad spectrum of clients in the fields of health care, financial services, defense, telecommunications, energy, hi-tech, agriculture, transportation and infrastructure. Co-lead the firm’s health care practice which includes multiple biopharmaceutical companies, an industry trade association, a home infusion provider and a small business health care coalition. Also responsible for tax issues for all firm clients.
Novartis, Washington, D.C.
Executive Director
July 2014-January 2017
Chief liaison to the Novartis Oncology Business Unit on behalf of Novartis Federal Government Affairs. Responsibilities include seeking legislative opportunities and identifying threats across the enterprise and developing/implementing strategies to advocate for and achieve solutions. Tasked with making Novartis a “partner of choice” for legislative policymakers on a range of issues including pricing/value of pharmaceuticals, protecting Medicare Part D, and advancing incentives for the research and development of innovative medicines. Actively coordinate legislative efforts with policy, communications, patient advocacy, regulatory and legal colleagues to attain desired results.
Merck, Washington, D.C.
Executive Director & Counsel, July 2012 – July 2014
Interim Head of Office, January – March 2011
Senior Director & Counsel, April 2006 – June 2012
Director & Counsel, June 2003 – April 2006
Responsible for identifying important legislative opportunities and threats to the Company, analyzing their potential impact, ensuring the timely development of appropriate policy positions, and developing and implementing strategies to advocate for and achieve the desired results. Led the formation of internal working groups, efforts to gain appropriate cross-functional input into the development of federal policy and advocacy positions, and efforts to shape and improve legislation to incorporate Merck’s views, including appropriate third party outreach and coalition building. Performed a leadership role in trade associations and coalitions to ensure that their advocacy positions and activities were aligned with Merck positions. Staffed CEO and other Merck executives in their roles as board members of major trade associations (PhRMA, NAM). Managed development of Merck PAC.
Congressman Ed Whitfield (KY-01), Washington, D.C.
Legislative Director, July 2001- June 2003
Senior Legislative Assistant, December 1998 – June 2001
Legislative Assistant, January 1997 – November 1998
Staff Assistant, September 1996 – January 1997
Oversaw legislative initiatives and supervised legislative staff to advance the Member’s agenda. Devised and implemented strategies and tactics to facilitate passage of legislation while staffing Member on the Energy & Commerce Subcommittees on Health and Energy & Air Quality. Advised Member on issues pertaining to the Ways & Means, International Relations, Resources, and Science Committees. Developed and managed relationships with other Members and their staff, including advocating for legislation and creating bi-partisan coalitions. Analyzed legislation, drafted bill text, speeches, committee statements, and messaging points for various audiences to promote legislative priorities.
Education
College of William & Mary, Marshall-Wythe School of Law, Williamsburg, VA
Juris Doctor, 1995
University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Affairs, History Minor, 1992
Service
Congressional Award
Board of Directors, 2013-present
Prevent Cancer Foundation
Spring Gala Co-Chair, 2016 & 2017
Spring Gala Corporate Committee Chair, 2015