CEO Today Top 50 – Stephen Squeri

By CEO Today On Jul 12, 2024 Last Updated 21st July 2024

CEO Profile

Name: Stephen Squeri

Net worth: Approx. $183 million Executive pay: $48 million

Bio: Squeri earned his bachelor of science from Manhattan College in 1981 and later completed his MBA in 1986. He began his career as a management consultant at Arthur Andersen, where he spent four years. Currently, Squeri serves on the boards of J.Crew and The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America. He is also a member of the board of trustees for both the Valerie Fund and Manhattan College, as well as the board of governors for Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School in Queens, his alma mater.

In 1985, Squeri joined American Express as a manager in the Travellers Cheque Group. Over the years, he held various leadership positions within the company, including President of the Establishment Services group in the U.S. and Canada from 2000 to 2002, and President of the Corporate Card group from 2002 to 2005.

During his tenure, he successfully globalized the business. Squeri took on the role of chief information officer in 2005, where he also oversaw corporate development and managed mergers and acquisitions. In 2009, he was appointed group president and played a key role in establishing the Global Services Group, which centralized and globalized the company’s shared services functions. Following the retirement of Kenneth Chenault in 2018, Squeri was appointed chairman and CEO of American Express.

Quote: “The most important thing you’ve got to learn is to listen to your customers.” – Stephen Squeri

CEO Fact: In 2021, Squeri made a $10 million gift to Manhattan College that was allocated toward enhancing facilities and infrastructure. In recognition of Squeri’s contribution, the on-campus building that houses Smith Auditorium and the Chapel of De La Salle and His Brothers was named Squeri Hall to honor the Squeri family’s longstanding generosity to Manhattan College.