About The Industry Leaders
Independent Editorial Recognition
The Industry Leaders was founded by Rob Barratt, a growth strategist and marketing expert for local business owners, who recognised that the professionals genuinely shaping their industries were often less visible than those with the loudest marketing budgets. The platform was built to change that - creating an independent editorial home for expertise, influence, and recognition that is earned rather than bought.
The centrepiece of The Industry Leaders is the annual Top 25 programme: 25 recognition lists identifying the 25 most influential professionals across 25 industries globally. Evaluated on LinkedIn presence and engagement, published output, media visibility, community impact, and industry recognition over the past 12 months. There's no fee to be nominated and selection is entirely editorial.
Alongside the Top 25 programme, The Industry Leaders publishes thought leadership articles and interviews from business owners and executives who want their expertise associated with a trusted editorial brand. If you are looking to contribute, visit our contributor page.
The Industry Leaders Top 25 Program
The Industry Leaders programme spans 25 industries — from Executive Coaching and AI Leadership to Cybersecurity, PropTech, and Non-Profit & Social Impact — recognising 625 professionals who are leading their fields right now. Honourees are evaluated on LinkedIn presence and engagement, thought leadership output in the review period, media visibility, community impact, and industry recognition.
How We Evaluate
LinkedIn is our primary evaluation platform.
We look for professionals with active, engaged presences — regular publishing, genuine audience interaction, and content that demonstrates real expertise. We also consider books published in the review period, podcast hosting, conference speaking, media mentions in recognised publications, and community-building activity. We do not consider job titles at large organisations without independent public profile. We do not accept payment at any stage of the selection process.
The Top 25 Lists
Every year we identify the 25 most influential professionals across 25 industries. Evaluated on real output and active presence over the past 12 months — not legacy reputation.
Boost Your Reach
Every two weeks we open free opportunities for business owners and executives to be quoted as expert sources in upcoming articles — building visibility with an audience of professionals growing their personal brands.
Nominate A Leader
Know someone who belongs on next year's list? Submit a nomination and we'll review it for the 2027 programme.