Fortune names its 50 Greatest Leaders for 2016
Amazon founder and chief executive Jeff Bezos leads Fortune magazine's 50 Greatest Leaders list for 2016, jumping from the 27th spot last year.
"As always, we cast a wide net, seeking outstanding leaders in all sectors of society around the world," says Fortune senior editor-at-large Geoff Colvin in his article.
"It isn't enough to be accomplished, brilliant, or admirable. We recognise those who are inspiring others to act, to follow them on a worthy quest, and who have shown staying power. No mere flashes in the pan, and thus none of the US presidential aspirants, make our list."
Last year, Apple chief executive Tim Cook took the top spot on the publication's annual list, but is down to fifth this year.
Apple CEO Tim Cook (Reuters)
Pope Francis has stayed at the number four spot. U2 frontman Bono graced the newsstand cover of the magazine, taking the 14th spot.
"The leaders you'll meet here, known and new, will lift your mood and upgrade your assessment of the world's future. Some may inspire you to join their followers. And those unheard-ofs, so seemingly ordinary, may even prompt you to rethink your own potential as an inspiring leader," says Mr Colvin.
Musician John Legend, at number six, stands out among the political, business and religious leaders that make up the list's top ten. Fortune notes that while Legend "can boast a best-song Oscar, 10 Grammys, and at least 6 million albums sold", the 37-year-old is also a committed philanthropist whose "advocacy is attracting as much attention as his hits".
Musician and activist John Legend (Reuters)
But not all the names on the list will be immediately familiar.
"It turns out the world is full of people you've never heard of who are rallying followers to make life better in ways you never imagined," writes Mr Colvin.
He cites as examples the small-town Italian mayor welcoming Middle East migrants, and the New Delhi government official fighting pollution.
The top ten:
Read the full list.
Reuters / Newshub.
