The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) has declared a new leadership team for 2026, with Professor Mary Garson taking on the position of president. Garson, an esteemed organic chemist from the University of Queensland, is acknowledged for her work on secondary metabolites. Her presidency comes after her previous tenure as IUPAC’s vice-president and entails duties such as overseeing meetings of the council and executive board, as well as presenting reports at biennial gatherings. Significantly, Garson launched the IUPAC Global Women’s Breakfast, promoting international networking opportunities for female chemists. She takes over from Ehud Keinan, who will remain on the executive board in the capacity of past president. Furthermore, Zoltán Mester will continue his role as secretary general, having been elected to this position in 2023.