In Thailand’s bustling marketplaces, where modernity intertwines with tradition, a group of exceptional women stands out. These ten pioneers are not just involved in the business world; they are at the forefront of it, making waves throughout the SET50 index. The SET50 Index, which is a benchmark of the Thai stock market, includes the top 50 companies in terms of market capitalization and liquidity. It serves as a gauge of the country’s economic pulse, and these women are the ones driving it.

1. Wallapa Traisorat

With a vision for Thailand’s urban future, Wallapa Traisorat leads Asset World Corporation (AWC) as CEO and President. AWC is a major force in Thai real estate, developing and managing a diverse portfolio of hotels, retail, commercial, and office properties. Traisorat’s impressive academic background, including a Master of Philosophy in Land Economy, equips her to strategically guide AWC. Recognized as a Forbes Asia Power Businesswoman in 2021, she is a role model for aspiring women in business, particularly those aiming to break barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries. Her leadership during AWC’s successful IPO, the largest real estate IPO in Thailand’s recent history, further exemplifies her expertise and influence.

2. Artirat Charukitpipat

As Group Chief Executive Officer of Bumrungrad Hospital (BH), Artirat Charukipipat leads a world-renowned healthcare institution known for exceptional patient care and medical tourism. A champion of innovation, Ms. Charukipipat drives Bumrungrad’s expansion into telemedicine and digital health solutions, ensuring BH stays at the forefront of the medical field. Her background in healthcare administration strengthens her leadership, making her a role model for women in healthcare management. Ms. Charukitpipat’s dedication to excellence and compassionate leadership in this critical sector inspires many.

3. Kattiya Indaravijaya

Kattiya is the first woman to hold the CEO position at Kasikorn Bank Public Company Ltd (KBANK), Thailand’s second-largest commercial bank and a leader in digital banking services. Her career at Kasikornbank spans over 30 years, starting in the relationship management department. Her extensive experience across various bank functions makes her uniquely qualified to lead the bank’s overall strategy.

4. Wannipa Bhakdibutr

An award-winning leader, Wannipa Bhakdibutr steers Osotspa Public Company Limited (OSOTSPA) as CEO. This leading Thai conglomerate offers a diverse array of consumer goods. Wannipa’s strategic vision and innovative approach have not only propelled OSOTSPA’s success but also recently earned her recognition as “Thailand’s Top CEO of the Year 2023” in the manufacturing industry. Her extensive experience positions her as a role model for women aspiring to excel in the competitive world of consumer goods.

5. Thida Kaewbootta

Thida Kaewbootta, as the Director of Corporate Strategy at Srisawad Corporation Public Company Limited (SAWAD), plays a crucial role in steering the company’s strategic direction in the retail loan market. Her work ensures that SAWAD continues to provide accessible financial solutions to those in need. Ms. Kewbootta’s leadership highlights the significant impact women can have in shaping the financial services landscape, inspiring others with her strategic acumen.

6. Dr. Poramaporn Prasatthong-Osoth

Dr. Poramaporn Prasatthong-Osoth, President, Authorized Director, and Chairperson of the Executive Committee at Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS), brings a unique blend of medical expertise and leadership to Thailand’s largest private hospital group. A medical doctor by profession, Dr. Prasatthong-Osoth leverages her qualifications from prestigious institutions like the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow to guide BDMS’s vision for expanding healthcare services and international reach. Her leadership has made BDMS a leader in medical tourism and forged key international partnerships.

7. Wallaya Chirathivat

Wallaya Chirathivat combines her roles as Director, President, and CEO at Central Pattana Public Company Limited (CPN) to spearhead innovative real estate projects across Thailand. CPN’s portfolio, which includes shopping centers, residential properties, and office buildings, reflects a commitment to enhancing urban living. Ms. Chirathivat’s leadership is a testament to the pivotal role women can play in shaping the real estate industry and urban development.

8. Pittaya Vorapanyasakul

A seasoned KTC veteran with 26 years of experience, Pittaya Vorapanyasakul steers Krungthai Card Public Company Limited (KTC) as President & CEO. Leveraging her marketing expertise, she has been instrumental in driving the company’s growth within the credit card industry. Ms.Vorapanyasakul’s leadership goes beyond financial products – she champions providing services that adapt to consumers’ evolving needs. This focus on innovation not only contributes to KTC’s success but also makes her a role model for women aspiring to leadership positions in the competitive financial services sector.

9. Choosri Kietkajornkul

A financial powerhouse with over 30 years in the energy sector, Choosri Kietkajornkul breaks barriers as the first woman to lead RATCH Group Public Company Limited (RATCH) as CEO. Leveraging her expertise, she champions a “Triple S” strategy focused on Strength, Sustainability, and Synergy, driving innovative projects that enhance Thailand’s power generation capacity. This commitment to sustainable energy solutions exemplifies the vital role women can play in addressing global challenges through innovation. Notably, Ms. Kietkajornkul’s leadership was recognized with the “Outstanding Commerce and Accountancy, Chulalongkorn Alumnae” award in 2022, solidifying her as an inspiration for women in business leadership roles.

10. Jareeporn Jarukornsakul

Jareeporn Jarukornsakul is a driving force behind WHA Corporation Public Company Limited (WHA) as its Group CEO and Chairman of the Executive Committee. WHA’s focus on logistics and industrial development, pivotal to Thailand’s economic growth, is expertly guided by her strategic vision. Her impressive background includes an MBA and a Public Health degree, along with honorary doctorates. Recent recognition as “CEO of The Year 2023” by Krungtepturakij hints at her focus on sustainability within WHA’s projects. Ms. Jarukornsakul’s path paves the way for women in industrial sectors, inspiring them to lead with vision and resilience.

The stories of these ten formidable Thai women on the SET50 index are not just narratives of personal achievement but beacons of inspiration for anyone aspiring to make their mark in the business world. Their journeys remind us that with hard work, perseverance, and a never-give-up attitude, the glass ceiling is not just to be shattered but also transcended. Let these leaders inspire you to dream higher, work harder, and pursue your ambitions with unwavering determination. Remember, the path to success is paved with challenges, but as these women prove, it’s a journey worth embarking on.

This article is inspired by: efinanceThai