Bart Peterson has been appointed senior vice president of corporate affairs and communications, Eli Lilly and Co. Mr. Peterson will report to chairman, president and chief executive officer, John C. Lechleiter, Ph.D. He will also serve on the company's executive and the operations committees.

Mr. Peterson will lead an organization that is responsible for international, federal, and state government relations; advocacy and professional relations; public policy planning and development; external and internal communications; pricing, reimbursement, and access; corporate social responsibility; branding; anti-counterfeiting; health information technology coordination; and community and public relations. As part of his new role, he will lead the company's interactions with the public health sector and other payers worldwide. This includes leading Lilly's effort to support reform of the U.S. health care system.

"Bart is a proven leader with a strong list of achievements. His strategic approach, intellect, and political acumen will make him a valuable addition to Lilly's leadership team," said Dr. Lechleiter. "Bart's unique public service and private sector perspectives and experiences will enrich our thinking across a broad range of business issues. He joins Lilly's top leadership at an important moment in time when Lilly and the pharmaceutical industry face significant challenges both in the U.S. and abroad."

Mr. Peterson has a distinguished record of leadership and achievement in both the public and private sectors. He served two terms as mayor of Indianapolis (1999 - 2007), where he championed the formation of charter schools. He was also instrumental in the effort that led to the creation of BioCrossroads to promote the development of life sciences businesses in the region. Mr. Peterson also served as chief of staff for then Governor of Indiana, Evan Bayh.