Rank: 14
Gail McGovern
President and CEO, American Red Cross
The American Red Cross during 2021 became a vital partner for hospitals as it faced the lowest blood supplies in more than a decade. The organization provides about 40% of the nation’s blood. The pandemic and severe weather events both led to record-low donations that caused hospitals across the country to scramble for alternatives.
McGovern has been CEO since 2008. The organization credits her efficiencies and operational decisions that have improved finances expanded services and the organization’s reach. McGovern overhauled information technology and introduced apps that have helped people access services during natural disasters and other emergencies. McGovern is a former senior executive at AT&T and Fidelity Investments.
McGovern speaks: “Humanitarianism is like an addiction. You see a need, you jump in and fill it, and you just want to keep doing it.”