Carol Meyrowitz

Since 2007, when Meyrowitz took the helm at TJX, the parent of TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and Homegoods, among others, the company’s revenue has grown 67%, from $17.4 billion to $29.1 billion. In 2015, the discount retailer generated more sales even than longtime industry leader Macy’s. Under Meyrowitz, TJX continues to expand, with more than 3,300 stores around the globe. Her strategy of constantly rotating in new items for a limited time at bargain prices entices customers to purchase more urgently and keeps them hooked on finding new deals. To keep pace with the rapid product turnover, she has also made it a priority to hire and train good buyers. Meyrowitz recently demonstrated some buying prowess of her own, purchasing a small Australian chain—and more importantly access to the Australian market—for less than $60 million. It’s a fittingly smart move for Meyrowitz, who plans to step down as CEO at the end of 2015.