No one could blame New Jerseyans for believing that every year is a critical one for the state. Every turn of the calendar seems to bring yet another series of challenges and choices – any one of which could change the course of our economy and society.

Well, for better or worse, 2025 is no different. A new presidential administration in Washington is quickly moving to flex its political muscles and dramatically remake the role of the federal government.

New Jersey voters will also choose a new governor – with Phil Murphy constitutionally barred from a third term – and all 80 Assembly seats up for grabs. Rapidly evolving technology, including the increasing use of artificial intelligence, is accelerating the already breakneck pace of change in the way we live, work, play and shop (see, e.g. Tally the Robot).

The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic is still altering commuting patterns, along with residential and employment opportunities. And the cost of living and doing business in the state remains a challenge, with no good solutions in sight.

Businesses, of course, will have to deal with all of these challenges successfully to keep the economy growing and residents working. The business leaders profiled below will be at the forefront of the efforts to meet the challenges and help their organizations thrive. In the process, they will contribute to the overall health, wellbeing and prosperity for everyone.

The NJBIZ editorial staff believe the individuals honored here represent the best the state has to offer, in several respects. They are talented and intelligent professionals, skilled strategists, gifted educators and sharp leaders. They also represent the state’s vibrant diversity on many levels.

For example, the health care industry – a vital one for the state given its size and importance – is represented by a wide variety of accomplished individuals. On one end of the spectrum is Joaquin Duato, who leads New Brunswick-based Johnson & Johnson, a global pharmaceutical giant developing and producing life-saving medicines. On the other, is Anthony Minniti, who owns and operates Bell Pharmacy in Camden, reimagining the traditional model of neighborhood drugstores and cannabis dispensaries.

We will need all of these folks – and Tally – to continue to function at high levels if the state is to navigate 2025 – and whatever vexing problems 2026 presents. And 2027. And on and on.

As you read through the profiles, keep in mind not only what landed these people on this list, but also what they – and all of us – will need to do as we head into the future together. And let us know what you think of the choices represented here.

The top 10 honorees are listed in numerical order, with the remaining 90 listed below in no particular order.

– Jeffrey Kanige, NJBIZ editor

Methodology

The power lists are compiled by the NJBIZ editorial staff based on our reporting throughout the past year with input from experts in a variety of fields and recommendations from our readers. The staff looks for people who have gained public attention – and perhaps acclaim – for their professional accomplishments and public service. Each list identifies individuals who, through their efforts, are helping to make New Jersey a better place to live, work and do business. Honorees are not necessarily better at their jobs than others in their profession, but they have contributed meaningfully to the advancement of the public interest through their work and/or community service.