Former pharma boss to lead rare cancer charities group’s board

Cancer52, which supports rare cancer charities, has appointed Anne MacDowell as its next chair.

She has worked in healthcare for more than four decades globally including senior roles within the pharmaceutical and medical technology sectors.

This has included a three-year stint as European business manager at EKOS, and marketing manager roles within Baxter International.

For the last five years she has been supporting Fight Bladder Cancer, which is one of Cancer52’s charities, in developing corporate partnerships.

“I am honoured and excited to join Cancer52 as its new chair,” said MacDowell, who replaces Urology Foundation CEO Rebecca Porta, who has been interim chair for the last year, supported by AMMG - Cholangiocarcinoma Charity CEO Helen Morement.

“I have always been passionate about improving people’s health and making a difference. I look forward to working with our Board, staff, members and other stakeholders to raise awareness, influence policy and improve outcomes for the underserved group of patients affected by rare and less common cancers, added MacDowell.

We are delighted to introduce Anne MacDowell as the new Chair of the Board for Cancer52!
Anne brings a wealth of experience from her extensive work in healthcare, and we look forward to benefiting from her drive and vision as our organisation continues to grow. pic.twitter.com/s2g6H7v5GE
— Cancer52 (@Cancer52org) October 23, 2023

Cancer52 is a charity itself and represents 115 predominantly small support group charities for patients with rare and less common cancers. These diseases account for more than half of all cancer deaths.

The charity’s chief executive Jane Lyons said: “We are thrilled to welcome Anne as our new Chair. She has all the qualities we were looking for - energy, experience, and the networks and a vision to take Cancer52 to the next level."