The former chief of Medicare and Medicaid, who was responsible for overseeing the implementation of President Obama's healthcare law, will lead the insurance industry's top lobbying group.

Marilyn Tavenner, who in February stepped down from her role as chief administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, will become the new head of America's Health Insurance Plans, which represents dozens of U.S. insurers.

AHIP's board of director unanimously elected Tavenner AHIP president on Wednesday, the group announced.

"There is no better individual than Marilyn to lead our industry through the increasingly complex health care transformation that is underway," said AHIP board chairman Mark Ganz in a statement.

"Marilyn is a recognized leader who brings the experience, tenacity, and dedication to achieve our advocacy goals and to move the health system forward in a way that is patient-centered," he added. "She has the respect and trust of policymakers and stakeholders from all sides, and a personal commitment to advance meaningful solutions for improving access to quality, affordable care for all Americans."

Tavenner, who led CMS through the disastrous launch of the federal Obamacare website, healthcare.gov, and the healthcare law's first two enrollment period, said she's "honored" to join AHIP.

"I am honored to join this association and to lead this industry that is deeply committed to improving care delivery and affordability for individuals and families," Tavenner said.