Vanessa Barry is the sole 2026 recipient of the fully funded Senior Executive Programme scholarship and will bring insights from the world’s top-ranked open Executive Education portfolio back to Cure Cancer
SYDNEY, 14 September 2026: Cure Cancer, the Australian charity dedicated to funding bold new ideas from emerging cancer researchers, has announced that CEO Vanessa Barry has been awarded a fully funded scholarship to London Business School’s Senior Executive Programme. Barry is the sole 2026 recipient and only the second Australian to receive the scholarship. She is currently undertaking the four-week programme in London.
The Senior Executive Programme forms part of London Business School’s open Executive Education portfolio, ranked first in the world by the Financial Times for the second consecutive year. London Business School awards one fully funded scholarship annually to support women in senior leadership. Candidates must be nominated by their organisation, have at least 15 years of management experience, and demonstrate a significant transformation they have personally led. Shortlisted candidates then take part in a panel interview at the school in London.
Valued at more than A$80,000, the programme brings together senior leaders from an average of 22 nationalities, including chief executives, executive committee members, senior civil servants, and leaders of major not-for-profit organisations.
Barry said the scholarship reflected the same principle that underpins Cure Cancer’s approach to research funding.
“Cure Cancer exists to back the boldest ideas in cancer research, and it matters that our own leadership reflects that same ambition," says Barry. "This scholarship is a wonderful recognition, but it is also a responsibility. I am looking forward to bringing what I learn straight back to our team, our researchers, and the donors who make our work possible.”
For Cure Cancer, the scholarship reflects a principle at the heart of its work: investing in talented people gives bold ideas the opportunity to grow. While leadership development can be difficult for charities to prioritise amid pressure on resources, Cure Cancer intends to apply insights from the programme to strengthen its long-term strategy and capacity to fund emerging cancer researchers. Barry also hopes her experience will encourage other Australian charities to invest in their own leaders.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Alexandra Lapa
Head of Communications and Engagement, Cure Cancer
