The U.S. Food and Drug Administration named veteran regulator Richard Pazdur as director of the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) following the sudden resignation of his predecessor. The appointment, reported by multiple outlets, restores a well-known oncology regulator to a central role and signals continuity in evidence-focused drug review practices. Pazdur, who has led cancer drug review efforts for decades, has a track record of accelerating approvals while emphasizing post-approval rigor and withdrawal when warranted. Administration and industry reactions highlighted expectations that Pazdur will balance expedited access with robust data requirements. Health-policy sources noted the move may stabilize agency interactions with sponsors and influence upcoming PDUFA negotiations and review priorities. Pharma companies and patient advocates said they anticipate clearer regulatory signals on accelerated pathways and oncology evaluation under Pazdur’s leadership.