Christine Beauchamp, 39
Ann Taylor
President
Christine Beauchamp became president of the division of AnnTaylor Stores (ANN) that makes Ann Taylor clothing in August 2008 at a key juncture. Same-store sales for her unit plunged 29% in the fourth quarter of 2008 as professional working women slashed spending. Now Beauchamp must rely on all her smarts and experience to turn the brand around. A Harvard Business School grad, she worked at Boston Consulting Group before joining Limited Brands (LTD) in 2003, where she developed beauty products and apparel. If she succeeds, Beauchamp has a shot at replacing Kay Krill, 54, who is CEO of the parent company.
--by Aili McConnon
