Elisabetta Zanon has served as the Chief Executive Officer of the European Cancer Organisation (ECO) since February 2025. She leads the organisation’s strategic direction, governance, and operations, working with its Board, membership, and partners to advance cancer policy, multidisciplinary care, and patient-centered initiatives across Europe. Zanon brings more than 20 years of experience in European affairs, with a strong track record in healthcare advocacy, EU policy influence, and the design and implementation of large-scale EU communication campaigns.
Before joining ECO, Zanon served as Director of EU Public Affairs & Advocacy at the Alliance for Regenerative Medicine and as Director of Advocacy for the European Society of Cardiology, where she managed EU-funded research projects and established the ESC Patient Forum. Earlier in her career, she founded and directed the NHS European Office in Brussels for ten years, representing the National Health Service in European matters and advancing policy and collaboration across public sector organisations.
The 100 CEOs featured here reflect the diversity and complexity of modern oncology leadership. In 2025, some lead the world’s largest cancer institutions; others guide specialized societies or emerging innovators. What unites them is responsibility: for millions of patients, for the integrity of science, and for the future direction of cancer care globally.
This list is not a celebration of power, but a recognition of stewardship, accountability, and impact – and of the leaders whose choices continue to shape the fight against cancer. For the many deserving individuals not mentioned in this list, we will continue to acknowledge, honor and elevate your voices in our daily publications from across the world.
See the full list of The 100 Influential CEOs in Oncology in 2025 and stay tuned for other special category nominations.
