Fortune has unveiled its inaugural list of top LGBTQ+ business leaders, spotlighting 25 of the world’s leading executives who are openly gay.
The American business publication, known for its Fortune 500 rankings, compiled a list of the world’s most influential CEOs, chairs, and co-founders who are openly gay, based on their companies’ revenue.
This definitive ranking underscores the significant contributions of LGBTQ+ leaders in driving business success globally, stated Fortune. Apple’s Tim Cook leads the list, with Jim Fitterling, chair and CEO of Dow, following closely behind. George Cheeks and Chris McCarthy, co-CEOs of Paramount Global, also feature prominently on the list.
Antonio Simoes, chief at Legal & General, was the highest-ranking UK executive, securing seventh place on the overall list. Dame Julia Hoggett, the first openly-gay CEO of the London Stock Exchange, ranked 21st in the listings. Reflecting on her journey, Hoggett commented: “In some ways, fewer things phase you after overcoming the very real fear of coming out.” “If you have the privilege of being a senior leader and if you care about equity, diversity, and inclusion, then you must use that privilege to speak up for those who are less able, or feel they are less able, to do so,” she added. “It can feel daunting to speak out at first, but I have learnt that the braver I am, the braver I get, and that by speaking out I can help others to realise that there is a greater world of opportunity out there for them too.”
Other UK executives on the list were David Hynam, CEO of LV; Robyn Grew, Man Group CEO; and Justin D’Agostino, Herbert Smith Freehills CEO. Eugenio Pirri, co-CEO of the Dorchester Collection, was also recognised. Alex Wood Morton, executive editor for Europe and list co-creator, commented: “Representation matters. Today’s businesses should reflect who we are, and our shared values.”
The inaugural Fortune LGBTQ+ Leaders list is a marker of how far we’ve come and how much work still needs to be done,” he added.
This ground-breaking list by Fortune highlights the pivotal roles played by LGBTQ+ leaders in major global enterprises, underlining the ongoing journey towards broader representation and inclusion.
