Discover a distinguished cohort of leaders shaping healthcare policy, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical industries in Europe. These are the minds shaping the debate about the wellbeing of Europeans. From advocating for innovation to driving strategic initiatives, these professionals play pivotal roles in advancing healthcare regulation and medical innovation across the continent. Explore their profiles to gain valuable insights into their contributions to shaping the future of healthcare in Europe. Return to the main list here.
Steffen Thirstrup - Chief Medical Officer at European Medicines Agency
With over 25 years of experience, including leadership roles at the Danish Health and Medicines Authority and significant contributions to the European regulatory network as a member of EMA's human medicines committee (CHMP) and Committee for Advanced Therapies (CAT), Prof. Thirstrup is a distinguished figure in the field of medicine assessment and clinical trials. His appointment as Chief Medical Officer at European Medicines Agency underscores his commitment to advancing public health initiatives and reinforcing EMA's role in shaping regulatory decisions concerning medicinal products. With a profound understanding of pharmacology and clinical medicine, he is well-positioned to provide scientific leadership and steer EMA's efforts in addressing public health challenges and contributing to EU health initiatives, such as combating antimicrobial resistance and advancing Europe's Beating Cancer Plan.
Ray Walley - Vice President at Standing Committee of European Doctors (CPME)
As a former President of the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO) and Chair of its GP Committee, Dr. Walley has played a pivotal role in shaping healthcare policies and initiatives in Ireland. With extensive experience as a full-time General Practitioner and GP Trainer in Dublin, as well as his role as an Associated Clinical Professor at University College Dublin, he brings a unique blend of clinical expertise and academic insight to his work. Dr. Walley's contributions extend beyond Ireland, as he actively participates in international medical organizations such as the UEMO (European Union of General Practitioners) and CPME, where he has held significant leadership positions. His commitment to improving healthcare access and quality is further evidenced by his involvement in the development of out-of-hours GP services and his role in Medisec, a company dedicated to arranging professional medical indemnity insurance. With a keen focus on primary care advocacy, governance, and international medical affairs, Dr. Walley continues to make invaluable contributions to the advancement of healthcare systems and patient care across Europe.
Alexander Natz - Secretary General at EUCOPE
Dr Alexander Natz is the Secretary General of the European Confederation of Pharmaceutical Entrepreneurs (EUCOPE). From 2008 to 2013, he was also Head of the Brussels Office of Bundesverband der Pharmazeutischen Industrie e.V. (BPI). Before, he worked as a lawyer at Sträter Law Firm in Germany with a special focus on managed entry agreements and licensing of pharmaceuticals. Alexander has also worked in the field of competition law with the European Commission and in the pharmaceutical industry. As a research assistant at Duke University (USA), he has dealt with international pharmaceutical law. His doctorate was supervised by the former judge at the European Court of Justice, Prof. Dr. Ulrich Everling.
Paweł Świeboda - Senior Visiting Fellow at European Policy Centre
Paweł Świeboda, a Senior Visiting Fellow at the European Policy Centre, epitomizes purpose-driven leadership across government, private sector, and NGOs. Spearheading impactful projects in economic security and resilience, he champions active brain health policies and fosters innovation through initiatives like NeuroCentury. With a wealth of experience in science management and a commitment to societal progress, Paweł is a driving force in advancing brain capital activities and shaping policies for future generations.
Marina Zanchi - Director at the European Health and Digital Executive Agency
Marina Zanchi brings over three decades of experience in European governance to her role as Director of the Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA), overseeing pivotal initiatives at the intersection of health and technology. With a distinguished tenure at the European Commission, including leadership roles in research, innovation, and administration, Marina has been instrumental in shaping policies and programs that drive societal progress. Her diverse background, spanning from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations to the International Atomic Energy Agency, underscores her commitment to global public service and collaborative solutions. As Director of HaDEA, Marina continues to champion innovation and digital transformation for the betterment of European citizens.
Dégi László Csaba - President at European Cancer Organisation
Dégi László Csaba is the President of the European Cancer Organisation (ECO) and a leading figure in psycho-oncology. With extensive experience in academia and research, he advocates for psychosocial oncology care across Europe. As Executive Secretary of the International Psycho-Oncology Society (IPOS) and founder of the Romanian Association for Services and Communication in Oncology (APSCO), he works to improve cancer patients' lives.
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Axel Balog de Manko Bück - Health Policy Adviser at European Parliament
Axel Balog de Manko Bück is the Health Policy Adviser at the European Parliament with a focus on European politics and public affairs. He is dedicated to advancing the European Health Union and promoting EU leadership in biotechnology and digital health, particularly in regenerative and personalized medicine. With experience in drafting amendments, negotiating legislation, and managing stakeholder relationships, Axel plays a crucial role in shaping health policy within the Parliament.
Marina Davidashvili - Head of Policy and Research at European Parliamentary Forum for Sexual & Reproductive Rights
Marina Davidashvili is the Head of Policy and Research at the European Parliamentary Forum for Sexual & Reproductive Rights. With over 17 years of experience, she leads international advocacy efforts and partnerships in the European region, focusing on Central and Eastern Europe. Marina is dedicated to advancing reproductive health and gender equality, leveraging her expertise in comparative research and legislative support across European parliaments. She holds a Bachelor's degree in International Relations and a Master's Degree in European Studies, and is fluent in English, German, Russian, and Spanish.
Agata Kusiak - Global Public Policy Analyst at European Society for Medical Oncology
Agata Kusiak is a Global Public Policy Analyst at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO), based in Lugano, Switzerland. With a background in public policy analysis and advocacy, she has a strong understanding of the Brussels environment. Her experience includes roles such as Policy Officer at SIOP Europe, the European Society for Paediatric Oncology, and EU Government Affairs & Policy Intern at Viatris. Agata is known for her exceptional interpersonal skills and her commitment to collaborative efforts that contribute to societal well-being.
Nathalie Moll - Director General at EFPIA
Nathalie Moll serves as the Director General at the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA) since April 2017. EFPIA represents the pharmaceutical industry operating in Europe, aiming to create an environment conducive to innovation and the delivery of new therapies and vaccines across the continent. Nathalie brings over 20 years of experience in the biotech industry, having previously served as the Secretary General of EuropaBio. She holds an Honours Degree in Biochemistry and Biotechnology from St Andrews University, Scotland. Nathalie has been recognized for her leadership and contributions to the field, receiving awards such as the Technovisionaries Women Innovation Award and being named one of the leading women in biotech in Europe.
Claudia Marinetti - Director at Mental Health Europe
Claudia Marinetti is the Director at Mental Health Europe, based in Brussels, Belgium. With over 15 years of experience in research and management, Claudia has demonstrated strong leadership skills and the ability to drive successful programmes. Prior to her current role, she served as Treasurer at the European Public Health Alliance (EPHA) and as a Programme Manager at EuroHealthNet. Claudia's expertise includes operational and strategic leadership, programme evaluation, financial management, and mental health advocacy.
