Top 15 Female CEOs in the United Kingdom to Watch in 2025
In recent years, the UK corporate world has witnessed a remarkable rise in the influence of women leaders. As industries transform with innovation, sustainability, and digitalization, female CEOs are playing a vital role in shaping the business landscape. In 2025, the spotlight is firmly on women who are not only breaking barriers but also driving growth and redefining leadership. This article highlights the Top 15 Female CEOs in the UK to Watch in 2025.
1. Alison Rose – Former CEO, NatWest Group
Alison Rose has been a trailblazer in the UK banking sector. Although she stepped down from NatWest in 2023, her impact and ongoing influence in corporate governance and leadership consultancy make her one to continue watching in 2025. She remains a strong advocate for gender equality and entrepreneurship in the financial sector.
2. Dame Emma Walmsley – CEO, GSK
Emma Walmsley continues to lead GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), one of the UK’s largest pharmaceutical companies. Known for her bold decisions in restructuring the business and prioritizing research in vaccines and oncology, Walmsley is driving GSK toward global competitiveness in the life sciences industry.
3. Liv Garfield – CEO, Severn Trent
As the youngest female CEO of a FTSE 100 company, Liv Garfield has consistently demonstrated innovation and resilience. At Severn Trent, she is driving sustainability initiatives, water conservation efforts, and major infrastructure projects. Her focus on green transformation makes her a key leader to watch in 2025.
4. Dame Carolyn McCall – CEO, ITV
Carolyn McCall has been instrumental in reshaping ITV’s business model, embracing streaming, digital-first content, and advertising partnerships. In 2025, McCall’s leadership in media and her ability to adapt to changing audience behaviors will be crucial for ITV’s continued growth.
5. Margherita Della Valle – CEO, Vodafone Group
Margherita Della Valle made history by becoming Vodafone’s first female CEO in 2023. Leading one of the world’s biggest telecom giants, she has a strong vision for digital connectivity, 5G expansion, and global innovation. Her focus on technological advancement positions Vodafone at the forefront of digital transformation.
6. Angela Ahrendts – Former CEO, Burberry
While no longer at Burberry, Angela Ahrendts continues to influence the UK’s retail and luxury sector. Her leadership expertise, board memberships, and advisory roles keep her a powerful voice in global business. In 2025, she remains one of the most respected female executives in the UK.
7. Dame Sharon White – Chair, John Lewis Partnership
Sharon White is steering John Lewis through the challenges of retail transformation, balancing online expansion with traditional customer service. As one of the most high-profile women in UK retail, her leadership in 2025 will continue to shape the future of consumer shopping.
8. Amanda Blanc – CEO, Aviva
Amanda Blanc has transformed Aviva, the UK’s leading insurance provider, into a more agile and customer-focused company. Known for her decisive management style, Blanc is guiding Aviva through the challenges of climate risk, digital insurance, and long-term financial security.
9. Zillah Byng-Thorne – Former CEO, Future Plc
After a successful tenure as CEO of Future Plc, Zillah Byng-Thorne remains a significant figure in the UK media and publishing industry. Her track record of digital transformation and acquisitions makes her one to watch as she continues her work on boards and in advisory capacities.
10. Alison Brittain – Former CEO, Whitbread
Alison Brittain, who led Whitbread through significant expansion and strategic shifts, remains an influential figure in UK business. As a mentor and board member, she continues to shape the future of hospitality and business leadership in 2025.
11. Jayne-Anne Gadhia – Founder, Snoop and Former CEO, Virgin Money
Jayne-Anne Gadhia has been a strong advocate for fintech innovation. After her time at Virgin Money, she founded Snoop, a financial management app that empowers consumers to take control of their money. In 2025, she continues to disrupt financial services with technology-driven solutions.
12. Debbie Crosbie – CEO, Nationwide Building Society
Debbie Crosbie leads the UK’s largest building society, focusing on customer-centric services and digital modernization. In 2025, she is expected to push forward innovations in financial services and strengthen Nationwide’s competitive position in the sector.
13. Melanie Smith – CEO, Ocado Retail (Joint Venture)
Melanie Smith has been instrumental in driving Ocado Retail’s online grocery growth. With the rise of e-commerce and changing consumer behaviors, her leadership in digital retail and customer engagement will remain influential in 2025.
14. Dame Inga Beale – Former CEO, Lloyd’s of London
Though no longer CEO of Lloyd’s of London, Inga Beale continues to play an active role in promoting diversity, digital transformation, and innovation in the insurance industry. Her influence in UK corporate governance ensures she remains a leader worth following.
15. Sacha Romanovitch – Former CEO, Grant Thornton UK
As the first female CEO of a major UK accounting firm, Sacha Romanovitch broke new ground in professional services. Today, she continues her work in social impact, leadership development, and sustainable business practices, making her one of the most forward-thinking leaders to watch.
The Growing Influence of Female Leaders
The rise of women CEOs in the UK signifies a shift in the corporate landscape. In 2025, these leaders are not only influencing business performance but also reshaping industries with their focus on innovation, sustainability, diversity, and digital growth. Their journeys highlight the importance of inclusive leadership and serve as inspiration for the next generation of professionals.
Why Female CEOs Matter in 2025
- Driving Innovation: Female CEOs are at the forefront of tech, healthcare, finance, and retail transformation.
- Championing Diversity: They are role models who inspire greater inclusion in boardrooms.
- Sustainability Focus: Many are integrating green practices into corporate strategy.
- Economic Impact: With more women in leadership, the UK economy gains resilience and adaptability.
Conclusion
The Top 15 Female CEOs in the UK to Watch in 2025 showcase the strength and diversity of women leaders who are redefining success. From finance to retail, healthcare to media, their influence continues to expand across industries. As the UK navigates a rapidly changing business environment, these women remain at the forefront of shaping a sustainable, innovative, and inclusive future.
Published: 16th September 2025
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