CEOs, or Chief Executive Officers, are the highest-ranking executives in a company. They are responsible for making major corporate decisions, managing operations, and serving as the primary liaison between the board of directors and the organization. Despite progress in recent years, women still need to be more represented in CEO positions. According to a 2022 report by Deloitte, women hold just 6.7% of CEO roles in Fortune 500 companies.

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Top women CEOs are female executives who have broken through gender barriers to lead some of the world's most successful and influential companies. Following these trailblazing women can provide valuable inspiration, guidance, and role modelling for mumpreneurs and women in business looking to advance their careers and make a meaningful impact.

Here are the first 10 top women CEOs on the list, with a brief introduction for each:

1. Karen Lynch - CEO of CVS Health, a leading healthcare company
2. Rosalind Brewer - CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance, a global pharmacy retailer
3. Mary Barra - CEO of General Motors, a multinational automotive manufacturer
4. Gail Koziara Boudreaux - CEO of Anthem, a primary health insurance provider
5. Thasunda Brown Duckett - CEO of TIAA, a financial services organisation
6. Carol Tomé - CEO of UPS, a global shipping and logistics company
7. Jane Fraser - CEO of Citigroup, a multinational investment bank
8. Corie Barry - CEO of Best Buy, a leading consumer electronics retailer
9. Tricia Griffith - CEO of Progressive Corporation, a significant auto insurance provider
10. Whitney Wolfe Herd - CEO of Bumble, a popular dating app

Karen Lynch

Karen Lynch is the CEO of CVS Health, a Fortune 5 company and one of the largest healthcare organisations in the United States. Born in 1963, Lynch earned her bachelor's degree in accounting from Boston College and her MBA from Boston University. She joined CVS Health in 2012 and served in various executive roles before becoming CEO in 2021.

Lynch is recognised as a top woman CEO for her strategic vision, transformational leadership, and commitment to improving healthcare access and outcomes. Under her guidance, CVS Health has expanded its offerings to include primary care, mental health services, and virtual care options. Lynch has been named to Fortune's "Most Powerful Women" list and Forbes' "100 Most Powerful Women" list. While her social media presence is limited, Lynch is a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the healthcare industry.

Rosalind Brewer

Rosalind Brewer is the CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance, a global leader in retail pharmacy. Born in 1962, Brewer earned her bachelor's degree in chemistry from Spelman College and her MBA from the University of Chicago. She held executive roles at Walmart and Starbucks before joining Walgreens Boots Alliance in 2021.

Brewer is recognised as a top woman CEO for her leadership in driving innovation, growth, and social responsibility in the companies she leads. As CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance, Brewer is focused on expanding the company's healthcare offerings and digital capabilities to serve customers and communities better. She has been named to Fortune's "Most Powerful Women" list and Time's "100 Most Influential People" list. Brewer is also known for advocating diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.

Mary Barra

Mary Barra is the CEO of General Motors, a multinational automotive manufacturer and one of the largest automakers in the world. Born in 1961, Barra earned her bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from Kettering University and her MBA from Stanford University. She has spent her entire career at General Motors, starting as a co-op student and working her way up to CEO in 2014.

Barra is recognised as a top woman CEO for transforming General Motors into a more agile, innovative, and sustainable company. Under her guidance, GM has invested heavily in electric vehicles, autonomous driving technology, and mobility services. Barra has been named to Forbes' "100 Most Powerful Women" list and Fortune's "Most Powerful Women" list. She is also known for her commitment to diversity and inclusion and has been vocal about creating a workplace where everyone can thrive.

Gail Koziara Boudreaux

Gail Koziara Boudreaux is the CEO of Anthem, a leading health insurance provider in the United States. Born in 1960, Boudreaux earned her bachelor's degree in psychology from Dartmouth College and her MBA from Columbia University. She has held executive roles at UnitedHealth Group and Blue Cross Blue Shield before joining Anthem in 2017.

Boudreaux is recognised as a top woman CEO for her leadership in driving innovation and growth in the healthcare industry. As CEO of Anthem, Boudreaux is focused on improving the customer experience, expanding access to care, and leveraging data and technology to drive better health outcomes. She has been named to Fortune's "Most Powerful Women" list and Modern Healthcare's "100 Most Influential People in Healthcare" list.

Thasunda Brown Duckett

Thasunda Brown Duckett is the CEO of TIAA, a leading provider of financial services in the academic, research, medical, and cultural fields. Born in 1973, Duckett earned her bachelor's degree in finance and marketing from the University of Houston and her MBA from Baylor University. She has held executive roles at JPMorgan Chase and Chase Auto Finance before joining TIAA in 2021.

Duckett is recognised as a top woman CEO for her leadership in driving financial inclusion and empowerment. As CEO of TIAA, Duckett is focused on helping clients achieve lifetime financial security and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and beyond. She has been named to Fortune's "Most Powerful Women" list and Black Enterprise's "Most Powerful Women in Corporate America" list. Duckett is also known for her philanthropic work and advocacy for education and community development.

Carol Tomé

Carol Tomé is the CEO of UPS and a global leader in shipping and logistics. Born in 1957, Tomé earned her bachelor's degree in communication from the University of Wyoming and her MBA from the University of Denver. She has held executive roles at The Home Depot before joining UPS in 2020.

Tomé is recognised as a top woman CEO for her leadership in driving operational excellence and customer-centric innovation. As CEO of UPS, Tomé is focused on accelerating the company's transformation strategy, expanding its global network, and enhancing its digital capabilities. She has been named to Fortune's "Most Powerful Women" list and Forbes' "100 Most Powerful Women" list. Tomé is also known for her commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility.

Jane Fraser

Jane Fraser is the CEO of Citigroup, a multinational investment bank and financial services corporation. Born in Scotland in 1967, Fraser earned her bachelor's degree in economics from Cambridge University and her MBA from Harvard Business School. She has spent her entire career at Citigroup, starting as a management associate and working her way up to CEO in 2021.

Fraser is recognised as a top woman CEO for her leadership in driving innovation and culture change in the financial services industry. As CEO of Citigroup, Fraser is focused on simplifying the bank's operations, investing in technology and talent, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. She has been named to Fortune's "Most Powerful Women" list and American Banker's "Most Powerful Women in Banking" list. Fraser is also known for her advocacy for gender equality and her support for working parents.

Corie Barry

Corie Barry is the CEO of Best Buy, a leading consumer electronics and home appliance retailer. Born in 1975, Barry earned her bachelor's degree in accounting and management from the College of St. Benedict. She has spent her entire career at Best Buy, starting as a financial analyst and becoming CEO in 2019.

Barry is recognised as a top woman CEO for her leadership in driving innovation and customer-centricity in the retail industry. As CEO of Best Buy, Barry is focused on accelerating the company's digital transformation, expanding its health and wellness offerings, and enhancing its customer experience. She has been named to Fortune's "Most Powerful Women" list and Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal's "Most Admired CEOs" list. Barry is also known for her commitment to diversity and inclusion and support for STEM education.

Tricia Griffith

Tricia Griffith is the CEO of Progressive Corporation, one of the largest auto insurance providers in the United States. Born in 1964, Griffith earned her bachelor's degree in business administration from Illinois State University. She has spent her entire career at Progressive, starting as a claims representative and working her way up to CEO in 2016.

Griffith is recognised as a top woman CEO for her leadership in driving innovation and growth in the insurance industry. As CEO of Progressive, Griffith is focused on leveraging data and technology to improve the customer experience, expanding the company's product offerings, and promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. She has been named to Fortune's "Most Powerful Women" list and Forbes' "100 Most Powerful Women" list. Griffith is also known for her advocacy for gender equality and her support for women in leadership.

Whitney Wolfe Herd

Whitney Wolfe Herd is the CEO of Bumble, a popular dating app that empowers women to make the first move. Born in 1989, Wolfe Herd earned her bachelor's degree in international studies from Southern Methodist University. She co-founded Tinder before starting Bumble in 2014.

Wolfe Herd is recognised as a top woman CEO for her leadership in driving innovation and social impact in the tech industry. As CEO of Bumble, Wolfe Herd is focused on creating a platform that promotes kindness, respect, and equality in relationships. She has been named to Forbes' "30 Under 30" list and Time's "100 Most Influential People" list. Wolfe Herd is also known for her advocacy for women's empowerment and her philanthropic work through the Bumble Fund, which invests in women-led businesses.

Maggie Timoney

Maggie Timoney is the CEO of Heineken USA, a leading beer importer and subsidiary of Heineken International. Born in Ireland, Timoney earned her bachelor's degree in marketing from Dublin City University. She has held various leadership roles at Heineken since joining the company in 1998.

Timoney is recognised as a top woman CEO for her leadership in driving innovation and sustainability in the beverage industry. As CEO of Heineken USA, Timoney is focused on expanding the company's portfolio of premium and craft beers, enhancing its e-commerce capabilities, and reducing its environmental impact. She has been named to Forbes' "Most Powerful Women" list and the Beverage Industry's "Top Women in Beverage" list. Timoney is also known for her commitment to diversity and inclusion and her support for women in the workplace.

Sonia Cheng

Sonia Cheng is the CEO of Rosewood Hotel Group, a global leader in luxury hospitality. Born in 1981, Cheng earned her bachelor's degree in applied mathematics from Harvard University and her MBA from Stanford University. She joined Rosewood in 2011 and was appointed CEO in 2013.

Cheng is recognised as a top woman CEO for her leadership in driving innovation and expansion in the luxury hotel industry. As CEO of Rosewood Hotel Group, Cheng is focused on growing the company's portfolio of ultra-luxury properties, enhancing its guest experience, and promoting sustainability and social responsibility. She has been named to Forbes' "Asia's Power Businesswomen" list and Prestige Hong Kong's "Women of Power" list. Cheng also supports education and the arts through her philanthropic work.

Lynsi Snyder

Lynsi Snyder is the CEO of In-N-Out Burger, a popular fast-food chain known for its high-quality ingredients and customer service. Born in 1982, Snyder is the granddaughter of In-N-Out's founders and has worked at the company since she was a teenager. She became president in 2010 and CEO in 2017.

Snyder is recognised as a top woman CEO for her leadership in maintaining In-N-Out's unique culture and commitment to quality in the face of rapid growth and expansion. As CEO, Snyder is focused on preserving the company's family-owned structure, investing in its employees, and supporting local communities through charitable giving. While Snyder keeps a relatively low public profile, she is widely respected within the industry for her stewardship of the iconic brand.

Mariana Ferrão

Mariana Ferrão is the CEO of FOX Telecolombia, a leading television production company in Latin America. Born in Brazil, Ferrão earned her bachelor's degree in economics from the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro. She has held various leadership roles in the media industry, including at FOX Networks Group and The Walt Disney Company, before joining FOX Telecolombia in 2020.

Ferrão is recognised as a top woman CEO for her leadership in driving innovation and diversity in the Latin American television industry. As CEO of FOX Telecolombia, Ferrão is focused on expanding the company's production capabilities, developing original content for streaming platforms, and promoting diversity and inclusion on and off-screen. She has been named to Variety's "International Women's Impact Report" list and Produ's "Top 30 Women in the Industry" list.

Indra Nooyi

Indra Nooyi is the former CEO of PepsiCo, a multinational food and beverage corporation. Born in 1955, she earned her bachelor's degree in physics, chemistry, and mathematics from Madras Christian College and her MBA from the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta. She joined PepsiCo in 1994 and served as CEO from 2006 to 2018.

Nooyi is recognised as one of the most influential women CEOs of all time for her leadership in driving PepsiCo's growth and transformation. During her tenure as CEO, Nooyi led PepsiCo's expansion into healthier food and beverage options, increased its global presence, and promoted diversity and sustainability initiatives. She has been named to Forbes' "100 Most Powerful Women" list, Fortune's "Most Powerful Women" list, and Time's "100 Most Influential People" list. Nooyi has also written a memoir, "My Life in Full: Work, Family, and Our Future," which shares her insights and experiences as a woman leader.

What are the Most Influential Female CEOs in Australia?

Here are some of the most influential female CEOs in Australia, along with a brief explanation of who they are and why they are worth following:

1. Shemara Wikramanayake is the CEO of Macquarie Group, a global financial services company. She is the first woman to lead Macquarie and is known for her expertise in infrastructure and renewable energy investing.
2. Marnie Baker is the CEO of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank, a regional banking group. Baker is recognised for her leadership in driving innovation and customer-centricity in the banking industry.
3. Jayne Hrdlicka is the CEO of Virgin Australia, a major airline. She is known for her experience driving transformation and growth in the aviation and tourism industries.
4. Amanda Harcourt is the CEO of Unilever Australia and New Zealand, a consumer goods company. Harcourt is recognised for her leadership in driving sustainability and social impact in the FMCG industry.
5. Susan Lloyd-Hurwitz is the CEO of Mirvac, a property group. Lloyd-Hurwitz is known for her expertise in property development and her commitment to creating sustainable and inclusive communities.

How many female CEOs are there in Australia?

According to a 2021 report by Chief Executive Women, women hold just 6% of CEO positions in the ASX 300, representing the 300 largest companies listed on the Australian Securities Exchange. This means that there are approximately 18 female CEOs in the ASX 300. While this represents progress from previous years, it highlights the ongoing underrepresentation of women in top executive roles in Australia.

How to Choose the Best Women CEOs to Follow

When choosing the best women CEOs to follow, consider the following criteria:

1. Relevance to your industry or career goals: Look for CEOs who lead companies in your target industry or have expertise in areas that align with your professional aspirations.
2. Track record of success: Follow CEOs with a proven track record of driving growth, innovation, and positive change in their organisations and industries.
3. Leadership style and values: Choose CEOs whose leadership philosophies and values resonate with you, such as a commitment to diversity and inclusion, sustainability, or customer-centricity.
4. Thought leadership and visibility: Follow CEOs recognised as thought leaders in their industries and regularly share their insights and perspectives through speaking engagements, interviews, or social media.
5. Mentorship and advocacy: Look for CEOs committed to mentoring and sponsoring other women leaders and using their platforms to advocate for gender equality and diversity in the workplace.

What are the benefits of following Women CEOs and business leaders?

Following women CEOs and business leaders can provide several key benefits, including:

1. Inspiration and motivation: Seeing women succeed at the highest levels of business can inspire and motivate you to pursue your leadership aspirations.
2. Learning and development: Following women CEOs can expose you to new ideas, strategies, and best practices to apply to your career and organisation.
3. Networking and mentorship opportunities: Many women CEOs are committed to supporting and mentoring other women leaders, and following them can help you connect with valuable resources and allies.

4. Advocacy and allyship: By following and amplifying the voices of women CEOs, you can help promote gender equality and diversity in the workplace and beyond.

According to a 2019 study by Harvard Business Review, women who have access to female role models and mentors in leadership positions are more likely to aspire to and achieve leadership roles themselves. Following women CEOs can be a powerful way to tap into this benefit.

How to Become a Successful CEO and Business Leader as a Woman

Becoming a successful CEO and business leader as a woman requires a combination of skills, experience, and strategic career planning. Here are some critical steps to follow:

1. Build your technical and leadership skills: Invest in your education and professional development to build the technical expertise and leadership capabilities needed for executive roles.
2. Gain diverse experience: Seek opportunities to work in different functions, industries, and geographies to broaden your perspective and skill set.
3. Cultivate strategic relationships: Build a network of mentors, sponsors, and allies who can provide guidance, support, and opportunities for advancement.
4. Communicate your value and vision: Learn to articulate your unique strengths, accomplishments, and leadership philosophy compellingly and authentically.
5. Advocate for yourself and others: Don't be afraid to negotiate for what you want and need in your career, and use your platform to support and amplify other women leaders.

Successful women CEOs and business leaders can provide valuable inspiration, guidance, and role modelling as you navigate your leadership journey.

What can help you become a Successful Mom CEO and business leader?

One of the most critical factors in becoming a successful mom CEO and business leader is having access to a supportive community and coaching resources. Joining a network like Mums & Co can provide invaluable benefits, such as:

• Connecting with other ambitious moms who are navigating the challenges of balancing career and family
• Accessing targeted education, events, and resources to help you build your skills and advance your career
• Finding mentors and sponsors who can provide guidance and opportunities for growth
• Tapping into a supportive and empowering community that celebrates your successes and helps you overcome obstacles

In addition to peer support, working with a qualified leadership coach can help you accelerate your growth and success as a mom CEO and business leader. A coach can help you clarify your goals, identify your strengths and areas for development, and create a personalised plan for achieving your leadership aspirations while prioritizing your family and well-being.

Can you become a CEO as a Mom?

Yes, it is possible to become a CEO as a mom. While balancing the demands of leadership and parenthood can be challenging, many successful women CEOs have proven that it is achievable with the right strategies, support, and mindset.

Some of the most common challenges that mom CEOs face include:

• Managing the competing demands of work and family time
• Overcoming bias and stereotypes about working mothers
• Finding reliable and affordable childcare
• Maintaining self-care and avoiding burnout

To overcome these challenges, mom CEOs often rely on strategies such as:

• Building a solid support network of family, friends, and colleagues
• Communicating openly with their team and stakeholders about their needs and boundaries
• Prioritising self-care and setting realistic expectations for work-life integration
• Advocating for family-friendly policies and cultures in their organisations

Joining a community like Mums & Co can be a valuable way for mom CEOs to connect with others who understand their unique challenges and can offer support and guidance. The community provides access to coaching, events, and resources to help moms succeed in business and leadership.

Do CEOs need a Coach?

Yes, many successful CEOs work with an executive coach to help them reach their full potential as leaders. Executive coaching is a specialised form of professional development that focuses on assisting leaders to enhance their performance, effectiveness, and impact in their roles.

Some of the critical benefits of executive coaching for CEOs include:

• Gaining an objective and confidential sounding board for navigating complex challenges and decisions
• Identifying blind spots and areas for growth in their leadership style and capabilities
• Developing a strategic vision and plan for their organisation's long-term success
• Enhancing their communication, influence, and relationship-building skills
• Achieving more excellent work-life balance and personal fulfilment in their roles

According to a 2019 study by the International Coach Federation, 99% of organisations with strong coaching cultures report higher employee engagement and revenue growth than their industry peers. This highlights the powerful impact that coaching can have on individual and organisational success.

How does executive coaching help CEOs and business leaders?

Executive coaching is a collaborative partnership between a CEO or business leader and a qualified coach who provides personalised guidance and support to help the leader achieve their goals and maximise their potential.

Some of the critical ways that executive coaching can help CEOs and business leaders include:

1. Clarifying their leadership vision and values: A coach can help leaders define their leadership philosophy and identify the values that guide their decision-making and actions.
2. Enhancing self-awareness and emotional intelligence: Through assessments, feedback, and reflection, a coach can help leaders gain greater insight into their strengths, weaknesses, and impact on others.
3. Developing their strategic thinking and problem-solving skills: A coach can serve as a thought partner and challenger, helping the leader explore new perspectives and approaches to complex business challenges.
4. Building their influence and communication skills: A coach can help leaders enhance their ability to inspire, engage, and mobilise their team and stakeholders around a shared vision and goals.
5. Achieving greater work-life balance and resilience: A coach can help leaders identify strategies for managing stress, prioritizing self-care, and integrating their personal and professional lives sustainably.

At Mums & Co, we offer executive coaching services specifically designed for women leaders, including moms navigating the unique challenges of balancing career and family. Our coaches are experienced business leaders and understand the complexities of succeeding as a woman in leadership.

One of our coaching clients, Sarah, shared her experience: "Working with my Mums & Co coach has been transformative for my leadership and life. She helped me clarify my vision, build my confidence, and create a plan for achieving my goals while also being present for my family. I feel more focused, empowered, and fulfilled than ever before."

In conclusion, following successful women CEOs and business leaders can provide invaluable inspiration, guidance, and mentorship for women who aspire to leadership roles, including moms balancing the demands of career and family. By seeking out supportive communities like Mums & Co and working with qualified coaches, women leaders can accelerate their growth, impact, and fulfilment in their professional and personal lives. While the path to leadership is not always easy, with the right mindset, skills, and support, women can achieve incredible things as CEOs and business leaders while being present and engaged mothers.

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