Shoppers and stock analysts are equally fond of Chico's CEO Scott Edmonds, 47. The company's revenues and earnings have soared under his leadership, with sales predicted to soon hit $1 billion. Edmonds, who joined Chico's in 1993 and was named to the top spot in 2003, is known for a hands-on approach to operations. He's continued Chico's tradition of good works, underwriting fund raisers for Lee's American Cancer Society and Collier's Shelter for Abused Women.

Birthplace: Hampton, Va.

Guiding principle: Life is a marathon, not a sprint.

Most notable characteristic: My approachability.

Greatest achievement: Having the ability to support my parents and to relieve other family members of their financial burdens.

Hoped-for achievement: A grandson.

People might be surprised to learn: I never graduated from college. I registered at Christopher Newport University in Newport News, Va., in the fall of 1980 and never attended one class.

Perfect day: Get up at six, read the newspaper, take a five-mile run, swim with my dogs, go boating, take a nap, have a dinner of fish, black beans and rice and a good cabernet, and be in bed by 10 p.m.