Pankind, announces the expansion of its leadership team with the appointment of Dr Amber Johns as Head of Programs and Astrid Mallard as Head of Marketing. 

Dr Johns brings over 18 years of experience working across global, large-scale oncology research programs. Her work building capacity and infrastructure for cancer research in Australia, along with her key role within international consortia, including high-profile pancreatic cancer programs, will be instrumental in ensuring that PanKind’s research funding continues to drive the greatest impact for our donors and stakeholders. 

Astrid Mallard, formerly the Head of Marketing & Communications at the Australian Red Cross, joins Pankind with a robust background in strategic marketing. Her expertise in leading brand and digital transformation, combined with her global experience in the FMCG and NFP sectors, will enhance Pankind’s reach and engagement with the community and ensure that the profile of pancreatic cancer is elevated to receive increased focus. 

“We are delighted to welcome Amber and Astrid to the Pankind family. Their combined expertise and passion for our cause will undoubtedly strengthen our efforts to combat pancreatic cancer,” said PanKind CEO Michelle Stewart. 

“Amber’s strategic vision and Astrid’s marketing acumen are exactly what we need to build the momentum of our research programs, patient and carer experience and our brand,” added Stewart. 

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal cancers with a current 5-year survival rate of just 12.5%. Only 3 out of 10 people will survive one year after diagnosis. In Australia alone, 4,506 people were diagnosed last year, and 3,669 deaths were recorded.  

Most patients will be diagnosed with late-stage, metastatic cancer as the disease is extremely difficult to detect in its early stages and with no distinct early warning signs, pancreatic cancer remains chronically underfunded.  

The addition of Amber Johns and Astrid Mallard marks a major step forward for Pankind during a period of significant transformation. Their global expertise and innovative approaches are crucial in charting a path to a better future for pancreatic cancer patients. 

Related: Nearly $3M raised for Sydney local battling terminal cancer 

Menchie Khairuddin

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Menchie Khairuddin is a writer Deputy Content Manager at Akolade and content producer for Third Sector News. She is passionate about social affairs specifically in mixed, multicultural heritage and not-for-profit organisations.

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