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Trailblazers and leaders, these captains are taking the helm and steering forward, with some guiding their organizations into prosperous new waters.
Kristen Cavallo, CEO, The Martin Agency, Richmond
The Martin Agency’s first female chief, Kristen Cavallo was named AdAge’s executive of the year this spring and just a couple months later Adweek named her to its list of Women Trailblazers. Known for its venerable Geico ads, Martin has added accounts with UPS, Virginia Tourism, CarMax and Buffalo Wild Wings and others under her watch. But perhaps the bolder makeover was internal, with Cavallo overseeing a cultural shift that has focused on diversity, inclusion, closing the wage gap and doubling the company’s female representation. •
Bryan Hill, County executive, Fairfax County, Fairfax
When Fairfax County hired Bryan Hill away from James City County in 2018, Supervisor Penelope Gross acknowledged in The Washington Post, “We may have to rein him in a bit.” Sure enough, Hill has had some clashes as he innovates and implements changes he deems necessary for the county’s future success. “I’m trying to get these people to understand: What the county did 30 years ago was great,” he told the Post, “but what do you want to do in the next 30 years?” •
Alison McKee, President-elect, Virginia Bar Association; of counsel, Kaufman & Canoles PC, Virginia Beach
In January, Alison McKee will become president of the Virginia Bar Association, which focuses on lobbying, helping new attorneys network and leading public service initiatives. (The VBA is a separate body from the Virginia State Bar, which licenses attorneys.) A Long Island native who specializes in commercial law, McKee took time off from her practice while raising her four children but now advises lawyers to “keep their hand in and not take a total break.” •
Jennifer Minear, Partner, McCandlish Holton, Richmond
One of the biggest challenges facing businesses is the increase in “inconsistent and arbitrary” visa application delays, says Jennifer Minear, who will become president of the American Immigration Lawyers Association in June. The Cornell alumna leads the immigration group at Richmond-based McCandlish Holton — Sen. Tim Kaine’s old stomping grounds, where she has his old phone extension. Immigration will continue to face restrictions, she says, as the Trump administration “pushes the envelope of what’s legally possible.” •