7. Ellen Kullman
Age: 54
She took the helm of the chemical giant two years ago when the recession was slowing demand for products such as Teflon and paint. As areas of growth changed, she reorganized businesses, a move that's now paying off as the economy recovers. Sales are up across business units, and after slashing jobs during the downturn, DuPont is hiring again.
NEXT: Ginni Rometty
Last updated September 30 2010: 2:47 PM ET
