Selwyn M. Vickers has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and the incumbent of the Douglas A. Warner III Chair, a position he assumed in September 2022 since September 2022, leading one of the world’s most influential comprehensive cancer centers. During his tenure, MSK has continued to expand its clinical capacity, research enterprise, and digital infrastructure, strengthening its position as a global leader in precision oncology and multidisciplinary cancer care. Under his leadership, MSK has advanced institution-wide initiatives integrating early-phase clinical trials, data science, and translational research, supporting rapid movement of discoveries from laboratory to clinic across solid and hematologic malignancies.
Dr. Vickers is a member of the National Academy of Medicine and has held leadership roles on the boards of Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Johns Hopkins University. He has also served as President of major surgical societies, including the American Surgical Association, and is recognized for his contributions to health disparities research. An internationally recognized pancreatic cancer surgeon and researcher, his work has advanced novel therapies, including the development of Minnelide, an injectable cancer drug in clinical trials, and pioneering studies on oncolytic adenoviruses targeting pancreatic tumor stem cells. Before joining MSK, he served as Dean of the UAB Heersink School of Medicine and CEO of the UAB Health System.
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.
