RILA Adds Kaiser Permanente Alum as Director of Health Care

Today the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), the trade association for America’s most recognized and innovative retailers, announced the hiring of Joseph Williamson as director of government affairs with a focus on health care policy. In this role, Williamson will represent the Association before Congress and the Administration on critical issues surrounding health care-related matters impacting the retail industry.  

“We are excited to welcome Joe to RILA. His extensive background in health care policy makes him the perfect fit to help our members navigate the complex legislative and regulatory health care environment. With Joe on board, we look forward to continuing our work with Congress and the Administration towards finding health care solutions that work for America’s retailers and their workforce,” said Jennifer Safavian, executive vice president of government affairs for RILA.  

Williamson will serve as RILA’s lead advocate on health care issues with Members of Congress and staff, key congressional committees, and federal departments and agencies. He will work with RILA members to educate Congress and the Administration on some of the key challenges and opportunities facing America’s retailers in the health care space.  

Prior to RILA, Williamson served as Kaiser Permanente’s legislative representative, spearheading their efforts on health care reform. He also served as a health policy advisor and legislative director for Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO). Williamson is a graduate of Temple University with a B.A. in political science.  

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RILA is the trade association of the world's largest and most innovative retail companies. RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs, and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers domestically and abroad.