We are now looking ahead to 2025. There’s a growing recognition of the pivotal roles women play in executive leadership across industries. Women are breaking barriers in various fields such as tech, finance, healthcare, and entertainment. They are leading transformative initiatives. They are also reshaping the future of business. The corporate landscape is becoming increasingly diverse and inclusive. Many female executives are emerging as influential figures. They will drive innovation, change, and growth in the years to come.
Here’s a look at some of the most exciting female executives to watch out for in 2025. They are not only leaders in their respective fields. They are also trailblazers for the next generation of women in business.
1. Safra Catz – CEO of Oracle Corporation
Industry: Technology
Why to Watch: Safra Catz has been one of the most powerful women in tech. She has served as Oracle’s CEO since 2014. Catz is known for her strategic vision. She possesses financial acumen. She has led Oracle through major acquisitions. These include the purchase of NetSuite and the expansion of its cloud computing business. As the tech industry continues to evolve, her leadership will be instrumental in shaping the future of Oracle’s role in the cloud and enterprise solutions space. Her ability to navigate complex challenges and lead with decisiveness makes her one of the most influential figures in tech.
What’s next: Oracle is shifting toward cloud-based services and AI solutions. Catz’s leadership will likely be key in expanding Oracle’s footprint. This will be crucial in emerging markets and driving continued growth.
2. Julie Sweet – CEO of Accenture
Industry: Consulting, Technology
Why to Watch: Since becoming CEO of Accenture in 2019, Julie Sweet has led the consulting giant through a period of significant growth, with Accenture expanding its focus on digital transformation and sustainability. Sweet, an advocate for diversity and inclusion, has been committed to reshaping the corporate world by placing gender parity at the forefront of Accenture’s strategic initiatives. Under her leadership, the company has strengthened its position as a global leader in consulting, technology services, and digital transformation.
What’s next: As the consulting industry increasingly emphasizes data analytics, artificial intelligence, and automation, Sweet’s vision will be crucial in driving Accenture’s continued leadership in these transformative areas. Her dedication to fostering a diverse leadership pipeline will also make her a key figure in championing women’s leadership across industries.
3. Mary Barra – CEO of General Motors
Industry: Automotive
Why to Watch: As the first woman to lead a major global automaker, Mary Barra has already made history. Since becoming GM’s CEO in 2014, she has led the company through massive transformation, shifting GM’s focus toward electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous driving technologies. Barra’s leadership is central to GM’s push to become a leader in sustainable mobility, and her decisions are likely to shape the automotive industry’s future for decades to come.
What’s next: In 2025, we can expect Barra to continue pushing GM to the forefront of the EV market. With a major emphasis on sustainability, Barra’s leadership will be pivotal as GM navigates the transition to electric and self-driving vehicles.
4. Roshni Nadar Malhotra – CEO of HCL Technologies
Industry: Technology, IT Services
Why to Watch: Roshni Nadar Malhotra is a standout leader in the global IT services sector. As the CEO of HCL Technologies, one of India’s largest tech companies, she has been instrumental in expanding HCL’s global presence and driving digital transformation for clients worldwide. As the first woman to lead an Indian IT company of this scale, she is a role model for women in technology. Nadar Malhotra’s focus on innovation, customer-centric solutions, and corporate social responsibility has earned her widespread recognition.
What’s next: In 2025, her leadership will be key as HCL continues to navigate the challenges of artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital transformation. Her focus on building an inclusive and innovative culture within HCL will make her an influential figure in the technology industry.
5. Emma Walmsley – CEO of GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)
Industry: Pharmaceuticals, Healthcare
Why to Watch: As the CEO of one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies, Emma Walmsley has been leading GSK through significant strategic changes, including a focus on innovation in vaccines, consumer health products, and biopharmaceuticals. Under her leadership, GSK has embraced digital technologies to advance drug discovery, and Walmsley’s leadership will play a pivotal role in steering the company through the rapidly changing healthcare landscape.
What’s next: As healthcare companies increasingly shift toward personalized medicine and AI-driven drug development, Walmsley will be at the forefront of this transformation. Her expertise in global healthcare markets and emphasis on diversity and inclusion will make her a key figure in shaping the future of the healthcare industry.
6. Thasunda Brown Duckett – CEO of TIAA
Industry: Financial Services
Why to Watch: Thasunda Brown Duckett made history in 2021 when she became the CEO of TIAA, one of the largest retirement and financial services companies in the U.S. With an impressive background at JPMorgan Chase, Duckett is now championing initiatives aimed at improving financial literacy and expanding access to financial services for underserved communities. Her leadership style is grounded in a commitment to equality and empowering people to achieve financial security.
What’s next: Duckett’s innovative approach to financial services, with a focus on retirement planning and wealth management for diverse communities, positions her to continue making significant strides in the financial services sector. Her emphasis on financial equity will resonate strongly as societal focus on wealth disparity grows.
7. Rosalind Brewer – CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance
Industry: Retail, Healthcare
Why to Watch: Rosalind Brewer became the CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance in 2021, making her one of the few African American women to lead a Fortune 500 company. Brewer, a former executive at Starbucks and a board member of several high-profile companies, brings a wealth of experience in retail, healthcare, and business transformation. Under her leadership, Walgreens is focusing on expanding its healthcare offerings, including driving access to care and digital health services.
What’s next: With Walgreens’ focus on becoming a leader in integrated healthcare, Brewer’s leadership will be crucial in shaping how the company adapts to the increasing convergence of healthcare and retail. Her emphasis on accessibility and innovation will be key as Walgreens navigates future growth.
8. Anne Wojcicki – CEO of 23andMe
Industry: Biotechnology, Healthcare
Why to Watch: Anne Wojcicki, the co-founder and CEO of 23andMe, is a pioneer in the biotechnology sector. Her company, which revolutionized consumer genetics and personal health data, has already transformed how people understand their genetic make-up and health risks. As the CEO of a company that bridges the gap between healthcare, data science, and genetics, Wojcicki is positioned to continue shaping the future of personalized medicine and biotech.
What’s next: As 23andMe moves into new areas like drug discovery and clinical trials, Wojcicki’s leadership will be crucial in positioning the company as a leader in genomics and health innovation. Her focus on data-driven health solutions will be a major driver of change in the biotechnology space.
9. Ann Marie Sastry – CEO of Sakti3 (a subsidiary of Dyson)
Industry: Energy, Technology
Why to Watch: Ann Marie Sastry is an innovative leader in the energy and technology sectors. As the CEO of Sakti3, a cutting-edge energy storage company that was acquired by Dyson, Sastry is leading the way in the development of solid-state batteries—a key technology for future electric vehicles and renewable energy storage. With her background in both engineering and business, Sastry is a formidable force in the green energy revolution.
What’s next: As the demand for sustainable energy solutions grows, Sastry’s expertise in energy storage will position her as a key figure in the clean tech industry. Her work could transform industries ranging from electric vehicles to grid storage and beyond.
10. Indra Nooyi – Former CEO of PepsiCo, Board Member, and Advisor
Industry: Food & Beverage, Board Governance
Why to Watch: Though Indra Nooyi stepped down as CEO of PepsiCo in 2018, her influence continues to grow, particularly as a board member and advisor to numerous companies. Nooyi’s groundbreaking leadership at PepsiCo, where she championed healthier products and sustainability initiatives, has made her a powerful voice in global business. Her strategic thinking and focus on long-term growth continue to make her a role model for women in leadership.
What’s next: In 2025, Nooyi’s influence will likely remain strong through her roles on corporate boards, her advocacy for sustainability, and her work in empowering women and minorities in leadership. She will continue to be a thought leader and advocate for diversity in the boardroom.
Conclusion
The future of leadership is undoubtedly more diverse, and these female executives are paving the way for generations to come. Whether it’s in technology, healthcare, finance, or retail, these women are not only making history but also shaping the future of global industries. As we approach 2025, their vision, innovation, and commitment to diversity will be key drivers in the evolution of the corporate world. Keep an eye on these leaders—they’re poised to make a significant impact in the years ahead.
Female Thrive 