5 Best CEOs of the Year 2026
Leadership takes many forms, shaped by experience, industry knowledge, business insight, and the ability to make meaningful decisions. 5 Best CEOs of the Year 2026 features five accomplished CEOs whose work and leadership have contributed to the growth and development of their organizations.
From different industries and business backgrounds, these leaders bring their own perspectives to strategy, innovation, people, and growth. Their profiles highlight the careers, achievements, and leadership stories that make them notable names in the business world.
Company
Management
Brief
Ashlee Clarke,
CEO and Co- Chairwoman
Ashlee Clarke is an entrepreneur, brand strategist, speaker, and Tony Award-winning Broadway producer who leads Empower Ocean Media Group and co-founded CAC Capital.
Erik Visser,
CEO
Erik Visser drives the company’s growth by combining hands-on market involvement, strong team leadership, and a practical approach to turning strategy into action.
Dr. MahaveerMehta,
CEO
Dr. Mahaveer Mehta is a veteran dermatologist and laser medicine pioneer who has spent more than four decades advancing patientfocused, evidence-based dermatology across the Middle East.
Daphne Zohar,
Founder and CEO
Daphne Zohar is driving the development of innovative medicines for neuropsychiatric disorders through Seaport Therapeutics.
Boudewijn Wijnands,
Founder and CEO
Boudewijn Wijnands is advancing hardware-rooted security through Fortaegis, developing secure compute technology for AI, critical infrastructure, defense, and other data-sensitive environments.