Ego Pharmaceuticals is pleased to announce that its Managing Director, Alan Oppenheim, has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (General Division) within the Australian Honours System, in recognition of his significant service to the skin healthcare industry.

The formal announcement was made today by the Governor-General of Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC.

“I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this recognition,” said Mr. Oppenheim. “This award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of every member of the Ego Pharmaceuticals team, past and present. It reflects our shared commitment to transforming lives through the science of healthy skin and to the legacy of care established by my parents over 70 years ago. I share this honour with all of them.”

Ego Pharmaceuticals is an Australian owned and made skincare company with a history spanning over 70 years. Founded by Gerald Oppenheim, a chemist, and his wife Rae, a nurse, the company develops science-backed dermatological skincare products, including QV skincare, DermAid topical corticosteroids and Aqium hand sanitiser, and exports to over 20 countries worldwide. All products are manufactured at Ego’s world class pharmaceutical plant in Melbourne. The company remains family-owned, with Alan Oppenheim’s wife, Dr Jane Oppenheim, serving as Chief Executive Officer & Director.

Under Mr. Oppenheim’s leadership as Managing Director since 1990, Ego Pharmaceuticals has been committed to providing quality-backed solutions for various skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis and head lice, and played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic by supplying Aqium Hand Sanitiser to hospitals and aged care facilities.

Dr. Jane Oppenheim has also dedicated over three decades to the company, with her leadership in scientific development and manufacturing growth significantly contributing to Ego's success. Her achievements have earned widespread recognition, including the 2025 BioMelbourne Network Women in Leadership Awards' Distinguished Leadership Award, and her work has directly supported the accomplishments for which Mr. Oppenheim has now been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia. 

The Oppenheims have also contributed to the industry through their involvement in organisations such as the Australian Society of Cosmetic Chemists and Consumer Healthcare Products Australia. Together they share an Australian Self Medication Industry Award for Excellence, and Mr. Oppenheim is also an Honorary Life Member of the Australian Dermatology Nurses Association.