Chain Drug Stores Will Appoint New CEO in December 2026

Michael R. Wysong will take over for retiring leader Steven Anderson at the National Association of Chain Drug Stores.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in People

Isometric editorial illustration of a modern pharmacy facade and a symbolic stone mortar and pestle, representing a leadership transition. — Michael R. Wysong will succeed retiring leader Steven Anderson as the new president and CEO of the National Association of Chain Drug Stores in December 2026. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Starting December 1, 2026, Michael R. Wysong will serve as president and CEO of the National Association of Chain Drug Stores. He succeeds Steven Anderson, who will retire from the role on December 31, 2026, after leading the organization for 20 years.

Why it matters

The transition marks a leadership shift for the association as it aims to advance its strategic framework and member-driven goals. Operators in the pharmacy space will watch how the new leadership influences the association's policy agenda and advocacy efforts.

Michael R. Wysong brings experience from CARE Pharmacies, which operates over 200 locations across 27 states and generates nearly $2 billion in annual sales. He served as the Association's Chair from April 2023 to April 2024 before this appointment.

The players

Michael R. Wysong

Incoming president and CEO of the National Association of Chain Drug Stores who has led CARE Pharmacies since 2010.

Steven Anderson

Outgoing president and CEO of the National Association of Chain Drug Stores who led the organization for 20 years.

National Association of Chain Drug Stores

A national trade association representing pharmacy chains that sets strategic policy and advocacy goals for the industry.

CARE Pharmacies

A pharmacy chain operating over 200 locations across 27 states and Washington, D.C., with nearly $2 billion in annual sales.

Spencer Stuart

An executive search firm that led the board-level committee in identifying the new association leadership.

The details

The appointment follows a national search conducted by a Board-level committee alongside executive search firm Spencer Stuart. Wysong has served as CEO of CARE Pharmacies since 2010 and will transition into his new national role to build upon the foundation established by Anderson. The association currently represents a network of pharmacy chains nationwide.

December 1, 2026: Michael R. Wysong begins as president and CEO.
December 31, 2026: Steven Anderson retires as president and CEO.

Market Landscape

This transition marks the conclusion of the 20-year tenure of Steven Anderson, signaling a major shift in the association's governance. The selection follows a competitive national search that reflects broader trends in professional trade group leadership.

Pharmacy operators should monitor upcoming association meetings and policy statements for signals on how the new administration may alter industry advocacy priorities. Reviewing the association's current strategic framework is recommended to anticipate shifts in legislative influence.

The takeaway

The appointment of a long-time member and former Chair as CEO suggests a continuity of core mission despite the change at the helm. Members should track any specific adjustments to the association's legislative agenda when Wysong formally assumes the role on December 1, 2026.