The Cardiovascular Research Foundation (CRF) has named Jack Lewin, MD, as its president and CEO. He was also appointed to the board of directors.

Lewin stepped down as president of the American College of Cardiology (ACC) in 2012 after more than five years. During his tenure, the ACC and CRF collaborated in a number of projects, including a joint educational project in 2010. In 2011, the ACC became a co-sponsor of the CRF's annual Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics scientific symposium.

Prior to his tenure at ACC, he led the California Medical Association for eight years. He also served as director of health in Hawaii from 1986 to 1994.

“His proven leadership skills, along with his expertise in both the business and clinical aspects of healthcare will enable him to help us strengthen and expand our role in the development of new technologies and therapies that will benefit people with heart disease worldwide,” said Eric B. Woldenberg, chairman of CRF’s Board of Directors, in a press release.

Lewin will take the helm from interim president and co-chair of the Executive Leadership Council, Colette Y. Gardner. Past president William A. Himmelsbach retired in 2012.