HONG KONG, 24 January 2022: The Asian Fund for Cancer Research (AFCR) has announced that internationally recognised leader, Lance Kawaguchi, has been appointed as the newest member of the Board of Directors.

The AFCR is committed to funding cancer research and promoting high-impact global collaborations to improve outcomes for cancer patients. The organisation is focused on funding and supporting innovative discovery and translational projects that unlock new information about how cancer forms and spreads, and how to treat it.

Founder and CEO of AFCR, Dr. Sujuan Ba says, “Lance’s strong experience globally across finance, banking, and not-for-profit (NFP) will bring a unique perspective to the Board. As a globally recognised leader in digital transformation, operational efficiencies, and diversity & inclusion, Lance’s passion for supporting early-stage oncology startups aligns with the vision of AFCR. Lance is a visionary leader and we look forward to his contribution as we expand AFCR’s reach across the Asia Pacific region”

Lance Kawaguchi is an internationally recognised executive leader and board member, with over 25 years of global finance and banking experience, including living and working throughout North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East. His current appointment as CEO of Cure Brain Cancer Foundation is a testament to his strong, advocating vision for supporting people and families living with cancer, by supporting innovative research to drive outcomes for those affected by the disease.

Led by Chairman Gary Gee Nung Wong, the Board is comprised of internationally recognised experts in the Asia-Pacific region across private equity, biotechnology, healthcare, legal, and the medical sector. Their combined knowledge and expertise strengthen the governance and global reputation of AFCR. The appointment of Mr Kawaguchi will be the first appointment of an Australian based executive to this group of industry leaders, lending new insight and creating synergies in the Region.

“I believe that cancer is a global problem and therefore requires a global effort to find a cure. Sharing expertise in the Asia-Pacific region will greatly benefit the cancer community,” said Lance Kawaguchi, CEO of Cure Brain Cancer Foundation. “I am honoured to be the first Australian representative to join the Asian Fund for Cancer Research Board and look forward to building these important, international relationships to benefit cancer patients.”

This appointment is aligned with the mission of AFCR, to promote global collaborations to create impact and make a difference to the lives of those diagnosed with cancer.