Founder and chairman, Fitch

After a prolonged absence, Fitch rejoined the company that bears his name in 2004, at which point it was in the doldrums. He has since acted as elder statesman and ambassador for the global design brand, expanding its activities in China and India. Fitch is a CBE and senior governor of the University of the Arts in London.

Correction: An earlier version of this article referred to Rodney Fitch as chairman and chief executive of Fitch. Lois Jacobs has been chief executive of Fitch since April 1.