Shaping the Future of Oncology: ESMO Elections 2025 Now Open!

The European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) has officially opened the 2025 Executive Board Elections, giving members a powerful opportunity to help define the future direction of global oncology leadership. Voting is open from 27 May to 10 June 2025 (12:00 noon CEST).

This year’s elections include outstanding candidates for the positions of Director of Education, Director of Membership, Director of Public Policy, and for the Nomination Committee. Elected Directors will begin their term on 1 January 2026, while Nomination Committee members will start their two-year mandate on 1 September 2025.

How to Vote

Eligible ESMO Full Members (in good standing as of 1 January 2025) may vote via the myESMO portal.
Student Members are not eligible. Voters will need their login credentials; any technical issues can be resolved by contacting [email protected].

Before voting, it is recommended to review the candidates’ documentation and confirm eligibility criteria via the ESMO Bylaws and the Elections FAQ page.

Candidates for ESMO Director Positions

Term Start: 1 January 2026

Director of Education

• Karin Jordan (Germany)
  An expert in supportive care, education, and multidisciplinary treatment implementation across Europe.
• Elizabeth Smyth (UK)
  Chair of the ESMO Guidelines Committee and a leading authority in gastrointestinal oncology and education policy.

Director of Membership

• Brigette Ma (Hong Kong SAR, China)
  ESMO Council member with strong experience in engaging oncology professionals across the Asia-Pacific region.
• Rachel Riechelmann (Brazil)
  A champion for Latin American oncology, known for her contributions in gastrointestinal oncology and inclusion.

Director of Public Policy

• Karim Fizazi (France)
  Internationally renowned for his leadership in prostate and genitourinary cancers, and active in global oncology advocacy.
• Sanjay Popat (UK)
  Thoracic oncology expert involved in guideline development and policy-focused initiatives in Europe.

Candidates for the ESMO Nomination Committee

Mandate Begins: 1 September 2025

Chair

• John Haanen (Netherlands)
  A pioneer in immunotherapy, with decades of leadership in translational cancer research and ESMO programs.
• Noemi Reguart (Spain)
  A prominent thoracic oncologist involved in high-level committee work and clinical trial leadership.

Members

(Top two female and top two male vote-getters will be elected)

• Nicoletta Colombo (Italy) – Specialist in gynecological oncology with an active role in ESMO scientific programming.
• Sudeep Gupta (India) – Director of a major cancer center in India, widely respected in breast cancer research and policy.
• Pasi Jänne (USA) – Leading researcher in targeted therapies for lung cancer and translational oncology.
• Ulrik Lassen (Denmark) – Known for his clinical trial work and leadership in precision oncology.
• Jeeyun Lee (Republic of Korea) – A key figure in personalized cancer treatment strategies and biomarker development.
• Sherene Loi (Australia) – Internationally recognized for her work in breast cancer immunotherapy and translational research.
• Martin Reck (Germany) – Lung cancer trialist and thought leader in immunotherapy.
• Hope Rugo (USA) – Breast cancer expert with decades of experience in clinical trials and oncology mentorship.

Why These Elections Matter

The ESMO Executive Board guides critical decisions that shape the future of oncology, from education and public policy to global outreach and clinical practice.
By voting, members influence:

• The integration of innovation in oncology education and training
• Membership growth and global representation
• Cancer policy and patient access strategies
• ESMO’s commitment to diversity and inclusion
• Future directions in clinical research and digital health

Cast Your Vote Today

The ESMO Executive Board strongly encourages members to take part in this pivotal moment.
By voting, you help shape a future of stronger leadership, greater equity, and innovation in global cancer care.

To participate, log in to myESMO and access the voting system. Every vote really matters.

You can also read about the 2024 ESMO Presidential Election, where Giuseppe Curigliano was elected for the 2027–2028 term.

Written by Nare Hovhannisian MD