Laura Akowuah has joined Cooley LLP as special counsel in the firm’s life sciences and healthcare regulatory practice and global litigation department. Akowuah, who previously worked at the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), will provide guidance to clients on FDA-regulated products and emerging developments.
“Laura is a rare talent who combines broad experience across the gamut of FDA compliance and enforcement matters with the ability to find practical, business-oriented solutions to the most complex problems,” said Sonia Nath, chair of Cooley’s life sciences and healthcare regulatory practice. “Laura’s unique skill set and versatility helps us meet surging client demands amid a shifting FDA regulatory environment.”
Akowuah’s career at the FDA included roles in both the Office of the Chief Counsel and leadership positions within the agency. She managed numerous civil enforcement actions and criminal prosecutions involving violations of federal regulations. Her recent role involved leading offices responsible for compliance strategies related to foods, dietary supplements, infant formula, produce, imports, recalls, outbreaks, and public health issues.
Cooley’s life sciences practice draws from extensive experience in representing businesses before various agencies. The firm offers comprehensive guidance through its CooleyREG platform and partners with its wellness practice to address challenges in the health industry.
“Cooley’s brand in the life sciences and healthcare sectors is second to none,” said Akowuah. “The firm’s continued investment in its FDA regulatory practice, coupled with Cooley’s unmatched reputation, makes it the ideal platform for my transition to private practice.”
Akowuah joins other former FDA attorneys at Cooley as part of their ongoing expansion of their litigation department globally.
