Baltimore, January 22, 2026
The Baltimore Business Journal has announced the inaugural Executive Leadership Awards to honor outstanding leaders in the Baltimore region. Set to take place at The Pendry Baltimore, the ceremony will recognize individuals across various sectors for their remarkable achievements in leadership and community contribution. Notable honorees include Kristen Pironis, Jonathan Rondeau, Chris Barber, and Neil Meltzer, who has been awarded Executive of the Year. The awards aim to inspire further growth and innovation within local businesses.
Baltimore, Maryland – The Baltimore Business Journal (BBJ) recently announced the inaugural Executive Leadership Awards to celebrate exceptional leaders within the region. This initiative represents a commitment to recognizing the hard work and growth of local businesses as they adapt and thrive in an ever-changing economy. Highlighting the tenacity of local entrepreneurs, these awards shine a light on the positive impact of leadership and innovation in driving community development and economic success across Baltimore and its surrounding areas.
The honorees span various sectors, including tourism, social services, and technology, showcasing the diversity of talent and entrepreneurial spirit found in the Baltimore area. The awards will take place on March 18 at The Pendry Baltimore, providing a platform to celebrate those whose leadership not only fosters business growth but also contributes significantly to the community.
Award Details
The Executive Leadership Awards are a fresh take, replacing BBJ’s previous CEO of the Year and Power 10 Awards. Selection criteria focused on outstanding leadership achievements, innovative strategies, and involvement in community service, ensuring that the honorees exemplify the best of what Baltimore has to offer in leadership.
Individual Recognitions
- Kristen Pironis: As the CEO of Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, she has significantly influenced tourism and destination marketing in the region, contributing to the local economy by promoting major events and activities.
- Jonathan Rondeau: Leading Fello, this organization has transformed its outreach and support for individuals with disabilities. Rondeau’s focus on a modern vision centered on connection has driven both social impact and organizational growth since his leadership began in 2017.
- Chris Barber: The founder of Cheaper Than A Geek, Barber has established an IT services company offering comprehensive tech support, emphasizing customer service and accessibility for both small businesses and residential clients. His approach helps local businesses access enterprise-level support within the tech landscape.
Executive of the Year
This year’s Executive of the Year honor went to Neil Meltzer, CEO of LifeBridge Health. His leadership over more than a decade has been marked by significant advancements in healthcare services and infrastructure expansions, which are crucial for enhancing community health and well-being.
Background
The Executive Leadership Awards represent a broader initiative by the Baltimore Business Journal to shine a spotlight on principled leadership that not only inspires but also fosters economic development within the business community. By celebrating these remarkable individuals, BBJ seeks to motivate other leaders to engage actively in driving growth across sectors.
Event Details
The upcoming awards ceremony promises to be a prestigious occasion, with the formal recognition set for March 18 at The Pendry Baltimore. This event will bring together business leaders, local entrepreneurs, and community advocates to honor the impactful contributions made by this year’s honorees.
Related News
FAQ
What are the BBJ’s Executive Leadership Awards?
The Executive Leadership Awards are an initiative by the Baltimore Business Journal to recognize outstanding leaders in the region who have demonstrated exceptional growth in their organizations and significant community involvement. These awards replace BBJ’s previous CEO of the Year and Power 10 Awards.
Who are the honorees of the inaugural Executive Leadership Awards?
The honorees include Kristen Pironis, CEO of Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County; Jonathan Rondeau, CEO and President of Fello; and Chris Barber, Founder and Chief Nerd of Cheaper Than A Geek. Additionally, LifeBridge Health CEO Neil Meltzer was named Executive of the Year.
When and where will the awards ceremony take place?
The awards ceremony is scheduled for March 18 at The Pendry Baltimore, where the honorees will be formally recognized for their achievements.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Award Name | Executive Leadership Awards |
| Organizer | Baltimore Business Journal (BBJ) |
| Purpose | To recognize outstanding leaders in the Baltimore region who have demonstrated exceptional growth in their organizations and significant community involvement. |
| Honorees | Kristen Pironis, Jonathan Rondeau, Chris Barber, and Executive of the Year Neil Meltzer |
| Awards Ceremony Date | March 18 |
| Awards Ceremony Location | The Pendry Baltimore |
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