2026 Virginia C-Suite Awards

Effective leadership can take many forms — setting a clear vision, building strong teams, navigating growth or creating cultures that help organizations thrive over the long term. Across Virginia, executives in business, government, higher education and nonprofits are leading with a focus on performance, accountability and lasting impact.

Virginia Business is proud to present the second annual Virginia C-Suite Awards, recognizing 38 executives who demonstrate leadership, integrity and measurable impact within their organizations and communities. This year’s honorees represent a wide range of sectors, from banking, healthcare and construction to technology, higher education, hospitality and public service.

Nominated by their peers and employers, winners were selected by Virginia Business editors based on factors including leadership ability, company performance, integrity, community impact and commitment to excellence. Honorees must hold a top executive position — such as CEO, chief financial officer, chief operating officer or an equivalent leadership role — and be primarily based in an office in Virginia.

This year’s winners will be recognized at a June 4 awards luncheon at Richmond’s Jefferson Hotel. Among the 2026 honorees are three two-time recipients (noted with an asterisk) receiving the

Leadership Distinction recognition, honoring executives whose sustained leadership and performance continue to set them apart within their industries and organizations.

Government

Higher education

Nonprofits

Private companies (51-149 employees)

Private companies (150 to 499 employees)

Private companies (500+ employees)

Public companies (up to $500 million in revenue)

Public companies (more than $500 million in revenue)