Todd Harper is Chief Executive Officer of Cancer Council Victoria, one of Australia’s leading not‑for‑profit organisations dedicated to reducing the impact of cancer through research, prevention, support and advocacy. He was appointed CEO in April 2011 and has more than three decades of experience in public health leadership, including previous roles as Chief Executive Officer of VicHealth, Executive Director of Quit Victoria, and Director of the VicHealth Centre for Tobacco Control. In recognition of his service to public health and cancer support, Harper was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2022. His background includes a bachelor’s degree in economics, a postgraduate diploma in health promotion, and a master’s degree in health economics.
Under Harper’s leadership, Cancer Council Victoria has strengthened its role in evidence‑based cancer control, including research, prevention programs and public advocacy. The organisation has been prominent in initiatives such as tobacco plain‑packaging advocacy, solarium bans, cancer screening campaigns and community programs addressing alcohol, diet and obesity, reflecting a broad commitment to reducing cancer incidence and improving population health. Cancer Council Victoria also leads partnerships such as the McCabe Centre for Law and Cancer and coordinates statewide programs like the Achievement Program and Vic Kids Eat Well to promote healthier environments.
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
