5 Examples of Women Doing Executive Positioning Well

Personal branding has become just as important as company branding, especially for CEOs. A strong personal brand can not only elevate a leader’s profile but also enhance the reputation and performance of their organization. Here’s a look at some of the CEOs who have mastered the art of personal branding and what makes their approach so effective.

Sara Blakely - The Self-Made Entrepreneur

Sara Blakely, the founder and CEO of Spanx, has built her personal brand around her inspiring journey as a self-made billionaire. Blakely’s authenticity, combined with her relatable and humorous approach to business, has made her a beloved figure in the entrepreneurial world. She frequently shares her experiences and challenges on social media, making her brand highly relatable and motivational. Blakely’s emphasis on self-belief and perseverance resonates strongly with aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders.? And she’s continuing to evolve as the inventor of new products! (cue: Sneex)

Mary Barra - The Trailblazing Pioneer

Mary Barra, the CEO of General Motors, is a trailblazer in an industry traditionally dominated by men. Her personal brand is built on resilience, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability. Barra has been at the forefront of GM’s transition to electric vehicles, positioning the company as a leader in the future of transportation. She is also known for her transparent communication style and strong advocacy for diversity and inclusion, which has strengthened her brand as a leader who is both bold and compassionate.

Karen Lynch - The Transformational Leader

Karen Lynch, CEO of CVS Health, has crafted a personal brand centered around transformation and purpose-driven leadership. Under her guidance, CVS has evolved from a traditional pharmacy chain into a comprehensive health solutions company. Lynch’s personal brand is deeply rooted in her commitment to improving healthcare access and outcomes, as well as her focus on mental health and diversity in the workplace. Her ability to lead with empathy and a strong sense of mission has made her one of the most influential and respected leaders in the healthcare industry.

Dawn Staley - The Sports Champion

Dawn Staley's personal brand is a powerful blend of authenticity, resilience, and leadership, which resonates deeply both on and off the basketball court. As a coach for the University of South Carolina women's basketball team and a three-time Olympic gold medalist, Staley has built a reputation not just for her strategic acumen but also for her unwavering commitment to her players and the sport. Her personal brand extends beyond her achievements, encapsulating her role as a mentor and advocate for equality in sports. Staley's consistent and transparent communication style, coupled with her dedication to her community and her roots, effectively communicates her values and convictions, making her a role model and a leader whose personal brand is as compelling as her career legacy. This approach to personal branding highlights the importance of aligning one's professional achievements with personal values and social responsibility, making her a standout figure in sports and leadership.

Dolly Parton - The Beloved Icon

Dolly Parton, while not a traditional CEO, is a master of personal branding and an inspiring business leader. Her brand is built on a foundation of authenticity, generosity, and resilience. With a career spanning decades, Parton has maintained a consistent image of kindness, humor, and humility, endearing her to millions. Beyond her music, she is a shrewd businesswoman, from her successful Dollywood theme park to her philanthropic initiatives like the Imagination Library, which provides free books to children. Parton’s brand is a powerful example of how authenticity and a commitment to giving back can build a legacy that resonates across generations.

These leaders exemplify the power of personal branding in shaping not just their own identities, but also the identities of the companies and organizations they lead. Whether through visionary innovation, empathetic leadership, or transformational purpose, these figures have crafted personal brands that resonate on a global scale. Their success demonstrates that in today’s business landscape, a strong personal brand is not just an asset—it’s a necessity.