Best Bosses 2020

What are the qualities of a good leader? In ordinary, pre-COVID-19 times, the answer would be easy. A sense of responsibility. The willingness to put the needs of the company, employees and customers front and center. Compassion. Smarts.

In the midst of a pandemic these qualities are just as important but it quickly becomes clear that other traits are perhaps even more important. The ability to lead when visibility into the future is cloudy and uncertain. Soothing and instilling confidence in those around you when you are feeling as frightened as everyone else. Grace under pressure.

When we first started sifting through the numerous entries for our Best Bosses nominations, the pandemic had begun. As we watched companies struggle to find their sea legs in this new normal, it gave us a front row view into how true leaders act during a crisis. We are confident that the men and women on the following pages meet this new criteria and then some.