Dr. Reshma Kewalramani, the Mumbai-born CEO of Vertex Pharmaceuticals, has earned a spot on Fortune’s 2025 list of the 100 Most Powerful People in Business, ranking at number 62. This marks a major milestone: she becomes the first Indian-born woman to lead a top-tier US biotech firm and feature in this prestigious ranking alongside global stalwarts like Mukesh Ambani and Satya Nadella.

Born in Bombay and relocated to the US at age 11, Kewalramani's career spans academic excellence from Harvard’s medical and public health programs to leadership roles at world-class institutions like Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital. In 2020 she rose to CEO of Vertex, now valued at over $110 billion.

Her recognition on Fortune’s list not only reflects personal achievement but also underscores Mumbai’s rising prominence in global female leadership. The 2025 Fortune India Most Powerful Women list expanded to honour 100 achievers across sectors, while the Candere Hurun India Women Leaders ranking featured 38 from Mumbai alone reaffirming the city’s status as India’s leadership capital.

Kewalramani’s ascent highlights breakthroughs in biotech and corporate leadership for women of Indian origin blending academic rigour, global ambition, and business impact. Her story inspires and signals a changing landscape where global boardrooms increasingly reflect India’s talent and ambition.