And their journeys continue to inspire other openly-gay business leaders taking their careers upward. They are increasing inclusivity and changing corporate culture. These three LGBTQ+ Fortune 500 CEOs are breaking barriers. Openly LGBTQ+ Fortune 500 company CEOs pave the way for inclusivity Out Leadership founder Todd Sears notes that, “LGBT equality can be expedited through business, and increasing the number of out leaders in the C and E-suites amplifies that.” These high-power, openly-gay CEOs drive their Fortune 500 companies further, creating opportunities for others to do the same. Openly LGBTQ+ Fortune 500 CEOs are building business, advocating for inclusion, and pushing for equality and more representation. But the rise of more LGBTQ+ executives is challenging the status quo. It’s no secret that corporate boardrooms are largely straight and cis-gendered.