PACKING A PUNCH.

• Author: Mildenberg, David

Welcome to Business North Carolina's annual snapshot of the state's most influential private-sector leaders. It's our chance to spotlight power brokers with the stroke to make things happen at their enterprises and in their communities.

The nation's ninth-most populous state, and among the most economically dynamic, relies on great leadership to excel. Having among the nation's most favorable business climates and fastest population growth rates doesn't just happen. With the benefits of power comes great responsibility, of course.

North Carolina has thousands of talented leaders, making this a small sampling of those with noteworthy power. It's based on nominations, talking with many sources, undertaking considerable research and enjoying years of experience covering North Carolina's business community from the magazine's unique statewide perspective. We love to hear feedback from readers reminding us of omissions. Political leaders are not included.

In compiling the list, it's fascinating to consider the different ways that powerful leaders exert their influence. The examples of two North Carolina iconic businessmen, who died earlier this year, reflect that dichotomy. While leading with contrasting styles, their impact will extend for generations.

* Bob Ingram joined Glaxo in Durham in 1990 and became CEO of Glaxo Wellcome. Over more than three decades, he played a pivotal role in promoting the Triangle area's life sciences and tech sectors, including his post-retirement work with the Research Triangle Foundation, other nonprofits and an investment partnership. He helped sustain North Carolina as a globally important research center.

* Rockingham native Leon Levine opened his first Family Dollar store at age 21 in 1959, then worked for four decades building a 4,300-store discount chain. His hard-driving, detail-oriented approach was legendary. After retiring in 2003, he spent two decades giving...