Isabel Mestres is the Chief Executive Officer of City Cancer Challenge Foundation (C/Can), the global initiative that supports cities in strengthening equitable cancer care systems. She was appointed CEO in late 2022 after serving in senior leadership roles within C/Can, including as Director of Global Public Affairs. Mestres has played a central role in expanding C/Can’s work with city governments, health institutions, and partners to turn cancer care improvement plans into operational services that address local needs. Under her leadership, the foundation’s city-based model has many cities worldwide, supporting measurable improvements in diagnosis-to-treatment timelines, workforce capacity, and access to high-quality cancer care, with an emphasis on sustainable, locally driven solutions.
Before becoming CEO, Mestres held leadership positions at the International Union for Cancer Control, where she developed strategies for membership growth and public-private engagement that expanded organisational reach and collaboration. She holds an MBA and brings extensive international experience in multi-sector partnership development to her work, guiding C/Can’s approach to global cancer care transformation. Her leadership emphasizes practical, data-driven interventions, fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships, and promoting equity in urban cancer care systems, positioning C/Can as a model for sustainable, city-led improvements in cancer treatment and support.
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.
