Nominees must be employed by a private-sector financial services firm, or by a business unit or division engaged in nonbank financial activities such as securities exchanges, asset management, card networks, hedge funds, investment banking, or private equity. Organizations that own or operate regulated banks may also qualify under this category.

Eligible candidates must work in — or represent firms headquartered in — the United States, Canada, or Western Europe.

Individuals whose primary employment is with trade associations, regulatory agencies, technology vendors, or professional services firms (including law, accounting, or consulting organizations) are not eligible for consideration.

Selections are made by American Banker’s editorial team, drawing on nominations, proprietary research, and quantitative analysis. Candidates are evaluated across several dimensions of innovation leadership, including:

• Leadership & Delivery: influence, roadmap execution, and ability to translate strategy into measurable outcomes
• Investment Stewardship: resource allocation, innovation budgets, and ROI delivery
• Ecosystems & Partnerships: collaborations driving acceleration or market differentiation
• Impact of Digital Transformation Initiatives: contribution to revenue growth, operational efficiency, and customer acquisition or retention
• Career Impact & Innovation Legacy: industry impact, patents and awards/recognition

Final selections emphasize tangible business results, span of leadership, and the individual’s broader impact on the digital evolution of financial services.