Last week, Dr. David Dzielak announced his retirement from his role as the director of the Mississippi Division of Medicaid. Today, Governor Phil Bryant has appointed Drew L. Snyder interim executive director as his replacement. While thanking Dr. Dzielak, the Governor says that Snyder is a “perfect choice” to fill the position.
“I appreciate Dr. Dzielak’s 30 years of service to the people of Mississippi, including six years leading the Division of Medicaid,” Gov. Phil Bryant said. “Drew has a firm grasp on the issues that affect Medicaid and the beneficiaries it serves. His intellect and demeanor make him the perfect choice to guide the agency during this period of transition. I am happy he has accepted this appointment.”
Related: Mississippi division of Medicaid director resigns
Snyder currently serves as the deputy chief of staff for Governor Bryant. The Eupora native also serves as his policy director and counsel. Prior to working with Governor Bryant, Snyder worked as an assistant secretary of state for Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann.
As interim executive director, Snyder will oversee the agency responsible for providing health coverage for eligible, low-income populations. Medicaid has almost 1,000 employees in its central office, 30 regional offices and 80 outstations. Snyder looks forward to working with those involved to the better serve the people of Mississippi.
“I am grateful for the trust Gov. Bryant has placed in me,” Snyder said. “My immediate focus will involve gathering input from stakeholders on ways to transparently and efficiently fulfill Medicaid’s stated mission of responsibly providing access to quality healthcare to vulnerable Mississippians.”
Snyder serves on the Mississippi Public Employees’ Retirement System Board of Trustees and chairs the Business Law Section of the Mississippi Bar. He was the non-legislative member of last year’s Legislative Tax Reform Working Group. He is a member of the Uniform Law Commission.
Before entering the public sector, Snyder practiced law at Hollingsworth LLP in Washington, D.C., specializing in complex and multi-district litigation, with a focus on pharmaceutical and medical device matters. He received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Mississippi and a juris doctorate from University of Virginia School of Law.
