Scott Edmonds

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.