Vasant Narasimhan has been the Chief Executive Officer of Novartis since 2018, leading one of the world’s largest and most research‑intensive pharmaceutical companies. Under his leadership, Novartis has sharpened its focus on delivering advanced therapies across key areas, including cardiovascular disease, oncology, immunology, and rare genetic disorders, reaching hundreds of millions of patients worldwide with innovative treatments. He has advanced the company’s strategic transformation toward cutting‑edge platforms such as siRNA, radioligand therapy, and gene and cell therapies, while championing a culture of innovation, digital science adoptio,n and global access initiatives designed to expand the availability of medicines in low‑ and middle‑income countries.
Since becoming CEO, Narasimhan has also guided portfolio refinement and strategic transactions that align the company with long‑term growth in core therapeutic areas, supported sustained R&D investment, and strengthened organisational performance across more than 130 markets. His tenure has been marked by a push to integrate data science and technology into research and development, broaden patient access, and drive efficiency, positioning Novartis as a focused medicines company with an emphasis on breakthrough science and global health impact.
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.
