Joe Kirwin, who has held the position of health policy and projects manager at Pancreatic Cancer Action (PCA) since January 2021, was appointed as CEO by the Board of Trustees and takes up his new position today.
During his time at PCA, Joe has led projects and campaigns that have resulted in potential life-saving innovations and investments. As the head of the Health Policy and Projects department, Joe has successfully campaigned for major developments for patients, such as changes to NICE Guidelines to improve early diagnosis and enable GPs to have the ability to make direct referrals for CT scans.
He has launched new, world-class accredited resources to support patients through their pancreatic cancer journey. He has also delivered major research projects in partnership with the University of Surrey on the relationship between diabetes and pancreatic cancer.
As well as his time at PCA, Joe has previously worked with other major charities such as The Salvation Army, DePaul UK and Alzheimer’s Society, where he delivered campaigns and projects focused on transforming people’s lives. Outside of his professional career, Joe is a respected leader in his local community as an elected Councillor, supporting residents with their concerns and contributing to award-winning regeneration projects.
Nicola Rees Mumford, Chair of the PCA Board of Trustees, said: “I am delighted Joe Kirwin has accepted the post of CEO at PCA. His ability to bring the leadership and wider teams together is a testament to his inspirational character. His expertise in the policies and people who can bring about a much-needed change in the way this disease is tackled will be of huge benefit to PCA and all its stakeholders. His ability to balance his outward-facing role with his collaborative leadership style makes him a truly exceptional CEO. I am very much looking forward to working with him and seeing PCA continue to grow and flourish under his stewardship.”
New CEO Joe Kirwin said: “I’m delighted to be taking over the role of CEO at this exciting time for Pancreatic Cancer Action and our community of patients, families, and survivors. PCA has a proud history of putting patients and their families at the heart of everything we do. I’m thrilled by the opportunity to continue fighting for patients and campaigning to improve survival rates. Together with the whole pancreatic cancer community, I know that we can finally turn that corner, improve survival rates and save lives.”
PCA’s founder and former CEO will continue to support PCA in a new public-facing role as founder and ambassador for its mission and vision.
