Southeast Asia is witnessing a transformative shift in corporate leadership, with women ascending to top executive roles across diverse industries. As of 2025, countries like Singapore and Thailand report some of the highest percentages of female CEOs globally, signaling a progressive move towards gender diversity in the boardroom. These trailblazing women are not only breaking the glass ceiling but are also steering their organizations towards innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth.
Image by HRM Asia
Tan Su Shan |
- Age 56
- Singapore
CEO – DBS Group
First female CEO of Southeast Asia's largest bank
Appointed in March 2025, Tan Su Shan brings over 35 years of experience in banking and wealth management to her role at DBS Group. An Oxford graduate, she has been instrumental in enhancing the bank’s technological resilience and expanding its wealth management services across Asia.
Image by Báo Thanh Niên
Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao |
- Age 54
- Vietnam
CEO – VietJet Air
Vietnam's first self-made female billionaire
As the founder and CEO of VietJet Air, Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao revolutionized Vietnam’s aviation industry by introducing affordable air travel options. Under her leadership, the airline has expanded its fleet and routes, contributing significantly to the country’s tourism and economy.
Image by The Australian
Germaine Chua |
- Age 42
- Malaysia
CEO – Real Pet Food Company
Leading a billion-dollar pet food enterprise
Leading a billion-dollar pet food enterprise
Germaine Chua took the helm of the Real Pet Food Company in 2022, steering the company towards premium, unprocessed pet nutrition. Her leadership has been marked by significant growth, with the company expanding its global footprint and workforce.
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Queenie Chong |
- Age 38
- Brunei
CEO & Co-founder – Memori
Pioneering digital legacy planning in Brunei
Queenie Chong co-founded Memori, a platform dedicated to digital legacy planning, and has been a vocal advocate for digital literacy and entrepreneurship in Brunei. Her efforts have been recognized with appointments to national advisory roles and international fellowships.
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Vivy Yusof |
- Age 37
- Malaysia
Chief Creative Officer – FashionValet
Influential fashion entrepreneur and social media personality
Vivy Yusof co-founded FashionValet, a prominent fashion e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia. Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, she has leveraged her substantial social media following to promote local designers and engage in philanthropic activities.
Image by McKinsey & Company
Jessica Tan Sin Yin |
- Age 47
- Singapore
Co-CEO – Ping An Group
Spearheading technological innovation in financial services
As co-CEO of Ping An Group, Jessica Tan has been pivotal in integrating technology into financial services, overseeing platforms like Lufax and Good Doctor. Her leadership has positioned the company at the forefront of digital finance in Asia.
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Nadiah Wan |
- Age 39
- Malaysia
Group CEO – Thomson Hospital Kota Damansara
Youngest CEO in Malaysia's healthcare sector
Nadiah Wan has led Thomson Hospital through significant expansions and modernization efforts, focusing on patient-centered care and technological integration. Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was particularly noted for its effectiveness and compassion.
Image by Deccan Herald
Paetongtarn Shinawatra |
- Age 38
- Thailand
CEO – Pheu Thai Party
Youngest leader of a major political party in Thailand
While primarily known for her political role, Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s leadership extends to overseeing party strategies and operations, reflecting a blend of political and executive acumen.
Image by Fortune
Helen Wong |
- Age 62
- Singapore
CEO – OCBC Bank
First female CEO of OCBC Bank
Appointed in 2021, Helen Wong brought extensive international banking experience to OCBC Bank. Under her guidance, the bank has pursued strategic growth in key Asian markets and emphasized sustainable finance initiatives.
Image by Altissia
Alexis Dangl |
- Age 35
- Singapore
Senior Director – Teads
Driving digital advertising innovation in Asia-Pacific
Alexis Dang leads publisher business development at Teads, focusing on expanding digital advertising solutions across the Asia-Pacific region. Her background in finance and technology positions her at the intersection of media and innovation.
These ten women exemplify the dynamic and diverse leadership reshaping Southeast Asia’s corporate landscape. Their achievements underscore the growing influence of female executives in driving innovation, economic growth, and social change across the region.
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