35 Inspirational Top Women CEOs Leading the Corporate World

We frequently hear that women have broken down barriers, redefined leadership, and transformed industries. While the business world has historically been male-dominated, the last few decades have seen an inspiring increase in female leadership. These women who are top-notch in their fields have both shattered the glass ceiling and advanced innovation, sustainability, and financial success for their respective organizations. So let us go check who the top women ceos who listed their names in the history of the busines world are.  

List of 35 top women CEOs:

1. Mary Barra:

Mary Barra has been at the helm of General Motors since 2014, making her the first female CEO of a major global automaker. Under her leadership, GM is focused on electric vehicles and sustainable mobility. 

2. Jane Fraser:

Jane Fraser made history by becoming the first woman to lead a major Wall Street bank when she was appointed CEO of Citigroup in 2021. She continues to drive innovation in financial services.

3. Carol Tomé:

Carol Tomé took over as CEO of UPS in 2020, overseeing one of the world’s largest logistics companies. Her leadership has been instrumental in enhancing operational efficiency and driving customer satisfaction.

4. Lynn Good:

Lynn Good, CEO of Duke Energy since 2013, is known for her commitment to clean energy and sustainability. She is spearheading the transition toward renewable energy sources.

5. Michelle Gass:

Michelle Gass, formerly CEO of Kohl’s, took over as President and CEO of Levi Strauss & Co. in 2024. Her strategic focus on brand innovation and digital transformation has been a driving force behind the company’s growth.

6. Beth Ford:

Beth Ford became CEO of Land O’Lakes in 2018, making history as the first openly gay woman to lead a Fortune 500 company. She is a strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

7. Patti Poppe:

Patti Poppe took the reins as CEO of PG&E Corporation in 2021, leading efforts to modernize the energy infrastructure and enhance safety measures across the company.

8. Shradha Sharma:

Shradha Sharma, the founder and CEO of YourStory, has been a driving force in the Indian startup ecosystem. Her platform amplifies the stories of entrepreneurs and innovators.

9. Adena T. Friedman:

Adena T. Friedman has been the CEO of Nasdaq since 2017. She is recognized for her focus on innovation and technology in the financial markets.

10. Judy Marks:

Judy Marks, CEO of Otis Worldwide, leads the world’s largest elevator and escalator manufacturing company, driving modernization and digital transformation.

11. Jennifer Hyman:

Jennifer Hyman revolutionized the fashion industry with Rent the Runway, a subscription-based clothing rental service. Her leadership continues to redefine consumer behavior in fashion.

12. Susan Wojcicki:

As the former CEO of YouTube, Susan Wojcicki played a pivotal role in expanding the platform’s reach and monetization strategies, transforming the way content is consumed globally.

13. Maggie Timoney:

Maggie Timoney became the first female CEO of Heineken USA in 2018, bringing a wealth of experience to the beverage industry and championing diversity in leadership.

14. Reshma Saujani:

Reshma Saujani is the founder and CEO of Girls Who Code, an organization dedicated to closing the gender gap in technology and empowering young girls to pursue careers in STEM.

15. Lisa Lutoff-Perlo:

Lisa Lutoff-Perlo has been instrumental in transforming Celebrity Cruises by introducing innovation and inclusivity into the cruise industry.

16. Angela Ahrendts:

Angela Ahrendts led Burberry through a transformative period, blending digital innovation with luxury fashion. She later served as Senior VP of Retail at Apple.

17. Kathryn Minshew:

Kathryn Minshew, Former CEO of The Muse, has redefined the job search landscape by connecting talent with companies that align with their values and career goals.

18. Dr. Ayesha Khanna:

Dr. Ayesha Khanna, CEO of ADDO AI, is an expert in artificial intelligence, leading her company in providing AI-driven solutions to global enterprises.

19. Julie Freischlag:

Julie Freischlag, a renowned surgeon, leads Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, ensuring high standards in healthcare delivery and research.

20. Annie Reyes:

Annie Reyes CEO of Hivedeco, leading the company in providing innovative home decor solutions that blend style, sustainability, and functionality to enhance modern living spaces.

21. Sue Downes:

Sue Downes, CEO of MyEyeDr., has been a pioneer in providing accessible, high-quality eye care services across the United States.

22. Norma Garcia:

Norma Garcia CEO of NRJ Media Group, leading efforts to expand the company’s influence in media and entertainment through innovative broadcasting and digital platforms.  

23. Patricia Whittaker:

CEO of AFIRE Fi, driving financial inclusion and empowering entrepreneurs by promoting responsible financial practices and innovative solutions.

24. Missy Chicre:

CEO of Menttium Corporation, leading efforts to develop mentoring solutions that empower professionals, foster leadership, and drive organizational success through structured mentoring programs. 

25. Miriam Chickering:

Miriam Chickering CEO of NextGenU.org, advancing global access to free, accredited online education in health sciences and professional development. 

26. Debra Livingston:

CEO of ReEmployAbility, Inc., leading the company in providing innovative return-to-work solutions that help injured workers transition back to the workforce efficiently and effectively.  

27. Suzanne H. EL-Moursi: 

Suzanne H. EL-Moursi is an expert in human resources, helping companies streamline their talent management processes.

28. Erin Stucky:

CEO of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City, overseeing healthcare services for the Kansas City region. 

29. Michelle Murray:

CEO of Nexus Family Healing, leading efforts to provide mental health and family services across the United States.

30. Marietta Rodriguez:

Marietta Rodriguez is a leader in affordable housing, helping families achieve homeownership through community-based initiatives.

31. Meredith Wilson:

Meredith Wilson, a global risk strategist, leads Emergent Risk International, offering cutting-edge intelligence solutions.

32. Sonia Cheng:

CEO of Rosewood Hotel Group, driving global expansion and redefining luxury hospitality by blending tradition with innovation across premium hotels and resorts.

33. Thasunda Brown Duckett:

CEO of TIAA, leading efforts to provide secure retirement solutions and financial services, empowering millions to achieve financial well-being.

34. Helena Helmersson:

Former CEO of H&M Group, known for driving sustainability initiatives and digital transformation to enhance the global fashion retailer’s market presence.

35. Shay Rowbottom:

CEO of Shay Rowbottom Marketing, helping businesses grow their brand and revenue by leveraging viral video marketing and LinkedIn content strategies. Instagram profile

Final Thoughts

These extraordinary top women CEOs symbolize the power of women’s leadership in influencing fields and inspiring leadership in future generations. As women take charge and assume their right and responsibility at the top, the corporate will become even stronger and more innovative. Their achievements are powerful symbols of hope, and change upending the concept of gender as a barrier to ambition, vision, and success.