Forbes, the renowned business magazine, has once again spotlighted the accomplishments of influential women in its annual list of the Most Powerful Women in 2023. Topping this prestigious list is Ursula von der Leyen, recognized for her outstanding contributions. Forbes utilizes a comprehensive approach, considering four pivotal metrics to gauge the power of these women:
Metrics Used by Forbes
Money
Assessment: Measures financial resources and economic impact.
Significance: Reflects the financial prowess and economic contributions of the women on the list.
Media
Evaluation: Assesses media presence and influence.
Significance: Highlights the reach and impact of their public image through media channels.
Impact
Focus: Examines the positive impact on society and the world.
Significance: Recognizes the tangible contributions that have made a meaningful difference.
Spheres of Influence
Analysis: Studies the scope and breadth of influence within their field and beyond.
Significance: Measures the extent of their impact on a broader scale.
Top 10 Most Powerful Women In 2023
1. Ursula von der Leyen
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Ursula von der Leyen, the inaugural female President of the European Commission since July 2019, previously served 14 years in Chancellor Angela Merkel’s cabinet. Her six-year tenure as Defense Minister and pivotal role in steering the EU’s 750 billion euro COVID-19 recovery package in 2020 underscore her impactful leadership and commitment to Europe’s economic resurgence.
2. Christine Lagarde
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On November 1, 2019, Christine Lagarde made history as the first woman to lead the European Central Bank (ECB), following her impactful role as the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) from 2011 to 2019. Lagarde’s astute analysis of the 2008 financial crisis prompted a push for gender diversity and reform in the male-dominated financial sector, shaping a more inclusive and resilient financial system.
3. Kamala Harris
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Kamala Harris made history on January 20, 2021, as the first woman, Black person, and South Asian-American Vice President of the United States. Her trailblazing journey includes being the first Indian-American woman in the U.S. Senate and the first woman of African-American descent to serve as California’s Attorney General in 2010. Her remarkable achievements reflect unwavering dedication to public service and a legacy of breaking barriers.
4. Giorgia Meloni
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On October 22, 2022, Giorgia Meloni created history as Italy’s first female Prime Minister, marking a global milestone for women in leadership. Her journey from leading the Brothers of Italy party to this historic position has been notable. Despite debates over her political views, she secured the fourth spot on Forbes’ 2023 Most Powerful Women List.
5. Taylor Swift
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In October 2023, Taylor Swift made history as the first musician to achieve billionaire status solely through her music and performances, securing the 5th position on the list. With over $500 million from song royalties and live shows, a $500 million music catalogue, and a $125 million real estate portfolio, Swift’s financial prowess extends far beyond her music career.
6. Karen Lynch
Karen Lynch embodies vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to healthcare. Appointed CEO of CVS Health in February 2021, she oversees a workforce of over 300,000, impacting the well-being of millions. Joining CVS in 2018, Lynch, as EVP, led the pivotal $70 billion Aetna integration, a transformative move for CVS Health. In 2023, Lynch’s leadership shone through with strategic acquisitions: $10 billion for Oak Street Health and $8 billion for Signify Health.
7. Jane Fraser
Jane Fraser made history as the first female CEO of Citigroup, a Wall Street giant. Appointed in 2020 and officially taking the reins in March 2021, Fraser’s exceptional leadership and strategic skills have left an indelible mark. Her journey from President to CEO reflects her unwavering determination, highlighted by a focus on innovation and diversity.
8. Abigail Johnson
Abigail Johnson, a visionary leader, has steered Fidelity Investments since 2014 as its CEO and Chairman, succeeding her grandfather, Edward Johnson II. Her early immersion in the company during college summers laid the foundation for her profound understanding of the financial industry. Armed with an MBA from Harvard, she joined Fidelity in 1988, marking the beginning of her impactful leadership journey.
9. Mary Barra
Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors (GM) since 2014, is a trailblazer in the male-dominated automotive sector. Leading one of the Big Three automakers in the U.S., she drives GM’s future with investments in electric vehicles, self-driving cars, and innovative services like Maven ride-sharing. Starting as a co-op student in 1980, Barra’s visionary leadership cements GM’s position at the forefront of industry evolution.
10. Melinda French Gates
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Melinda French Gates, a key figure in global philanthropy, co-chairs the influential Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, championing a better world. Despite their divorce, Bill and Melinda remain united in pursuing impactful change. Melinda passionately advocates for women’s and girls’ rights, emphasizing education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Her impact extends through Pivotal Ventures, supporting women-founded businesses and innovative solutions for societal challenges, inspiring positive global change.
Indians’ Position in Forbes’ 2023 Most Powerful Women List
India proudly showcases its influence on the global stage as four remarkable women from the country secure positions on the prestigious Forbes list for 2023, highlighting their power and impact.
1. Nirmala Sitharaman (32nd position)
2. Roshni Nadar Malhotra (60th position)
3. Soma Mondal (70th position)
4. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (76th position)
Check the Full forbes List here
Also Read: Forbes List Of Top 10 Youngest Billionaires Reshaping The World
