Michael Bailey is a veteran biopharmaceutical executive who has served as President and CEO of AVEO Oncology since 2015, leading the company through a significant strategic transformation. Under his leadership, AVEO achieved its most critical milestone with the FDA approval of tivozanib (FOTIVDA) in 2021 for adult patients with relapsed or refractory advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC). This achievement transitioned the organization from a research-focused entity into a fully integrated, commercial-stage oncology company. Bailey is credited with revitalizing the company’s pipeline and successfully navigating complex regulatory pathways—overcoming a 2020 FDA rejection by launching a decisive second Phase 3 study—to bring a new oral therapy to the global market as a potential standard of care.
Beyond the commercial success of FOTIVDA, Bailey’s tenure is marked by the strategic $566 million acquisition of AVEO by LG Chem in early 2023. This merger established AVEO as the commercial foundation for LG Chem’s oncology division in the U.S., significantly expanding resources for the company’s diversified pipeline. Under Bailey’s continued direction, the organization is advancing promising candidates like ficlatuzumab for head and neck cancer and exploring new combinations for tivozanib, as seen in recent data presentations at ASCO GU 2025. By fostering a mission-driven culture that earned the company “Top Places to Work” honors in 2023, Bailey has solidified his reputation as a results-oriented leader dedicated to improving the lives of cancer patients through both clinical and operational excellence.
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 Most Influential CEOs in Oncology in 2025, and stay tuned for other special category nominations.
