Coates will retire after 19 years as director of the office, and Betz, who is nearing retirement himself, will replace him as interim director when Coates’ retirement becomes official on June 22. Betz is also the director of the office’s Analytical Methods and Reference Materials Program.
United Natural Products Alliance president Loren Israelsen praised Coates’ willingness to work with industry.
“UNPA and I have known Paul since day one at ODS,” Israelsen said. “He was always professional and collaborative. From the very beginning, ODS and UNPA have enjoyed a very friendly relationship. His efforts to build the work and scope of ODS have been welcomed by UNPA and the rest of the dietary supplement industry.”
Israelsen said Betz’s familiarity with the industry and the players within it means that ODS/NIH will not miss a beat under his stewardship.
“With Paul’s retirement, we welcome Joe Betz to the position of acting director,” Israelsen said. “Joe has been a long-time friend to both UNPA and me personally. We’ve known Joe since his days at FDA and the American Herbal Products Association, and of course, since he’s been at ODS—spanning 30+ years. We’re delighted that he’s coming in as acting director and look forward to a continued, strong and collaborative relationship with Joe and ODS.”
Dr Betz, who is one of the foremost authorities on botanical identification, has been highly active within the industry in helping to boost supply chain transparency and traceability. He has given talks in conjunction with industry authorities on botanical identification. Dr Betz is also a frequent contributor to industry events, such as the annual AHPA awards.