Simone Leyden co-founded NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia in 2009 after seeing a huge disparity in treatment and support for rare and less common cancers, compared to more common cancers throughout her sister Kate’s neuroendocrine cancer journey.
After finishing her Bachelor of Business Management/Marketing degree from Monash University, Simone went into the field of Advertising/ Marketing and held various senior positions over 12 years. In 2011 Simone took on the full-time role of Chief Executive Officer of NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia (previously Unicorn Foundation).
Simone advocates for greater access to treatments and diagnostics, raises funds for the Neuroendocrine Cancer Nurse Support Service and research, and raises awareness about Neuroendocrine Cancer cancers within the medical community and general public. Simone is an active member of many associations including past President, board member and Research and Communications Committee Chair of the International Neuroendocrine Cancer Alliance (INCA). Simone is passionate about driving research and is an Associate Investigator on a number of Neuroendocrine cancer studies, and has been the lead author and co-author peer reviewed publications in journals including the International Journal of Cancer. Simone’s pursuit of equitable access and investment in breakthrough treatments has now led to her current role as Director of Global Patient Advocacy and Government Affairs at Telix Pharmaceuticals. Simone is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and in 2023 was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) as part of the Kings Birthday Honours, for significant service to community health, particularly through neuroendocrine cancer organisations.
