• Alan Oppenheim, managing director of Ego Pharmaceuticals, has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division
    Alan Oppenheim, managing director of Ego Pharmaceuticals, has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division
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Ego Pharmaceuticals managing director Alan Oppenheim has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division for his service to the skin healthcare industry.

All Ego Pharmaceuticals products, including QV skincare, DermAid topical corticosteroids and Aqium hand sanitiser, are manufactured at the company’s pharmaceutical plant in Melbourne. The business is Australian owned and operated, and exports to more than 20 countries. The company has featured regularly in PKN for its efforts on packaging sustainability.

Reflecting on the recignition, Oppenheim said, “I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this recognition. This award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of every member of the Ego Pharmaceuticals team, past and present. I share this honour with all of them.”

The company was founded over 70 years ago by Gerald and Rae Oppenheim. It remains family-owned, with Dr Jane Oppenheim, chief executive officer and director, leading scientific development and manufacturing. Her contribution has been recognised through awards including the Distinguished Leadership Award at the 2025 BioMelbourne Network Women in Leadership Awards.

Oppenheim has served as managing director since 1990, and previously as scientific director from 1980 to 1990. His industry involvement includes director roles with the Australian Society of Cosmetic Chemists and Consumer Healthcare Products Australia, and president of the International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists from 1996 to 1997.

Other recognition for his work includes the Distinguished Alumni Award from Monash University in 2018 and Australian Export Hero in 2010.

The announcement of his appointment was made by the Governor-General of Australia, Sam Mostyn.

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