Gary Reedy

Gary M. Reedy was CEO of the American Cancer Society and the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network from 2015 to 2021, following 15 years of volunteer leadership for the organization, including chairing the Boards of Directors for the American Cancer Society and its advocacy affiliate, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network.

As the most senior leader of the only global nonprofit organization attacking cancer from every angle, Reedy ignited the movement to save lives, celebrate lives, and lead the fight for a world without cancer. Reedy transformed the organization into one that is impact-focused, volunteer-driven, and committed to ensuring breakthroughs in cancer prevention, screening, and treatment benefit all. His leadership emphasized disciplined focus on maximizing the Society’s support of progress against cancer, optimizing volunteer and customer experiences, expanding stewardship and engagement, leading innovation, and advancing health equity. Under his leadership, the organization set a precedent-shattering goal to reduce cancer mortality by an additional 40% by 2035 and created the Blueprint for Cancer Control in the 21st Century to help the nation reach that goal.

Previously, Reedy served as worldwide vice president, government affairs and policy at Johnson & Johnson, president of Ortho Biotech, and in senior leadership roles at SmithKline Beecham and Centocor.

Reedy is continuing his engagement with the American Cancer Society as an active volunteer. He holds appointments to the Board of Directors of the Center for Global Health Innovation, Board of Councilors for The Carter Center, Georgia Tech Advisory Board, Dean’s Council at Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health, Advisory Board for Emory University’s Center for Ethics, and MMM Tech Advisory Council. He is also an active member of the Atlanta Rotary Club.

Reedy graduated from Emory & Henry College and received an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Arcadia University. He and his wife, Cindy, live in Atlanta.