With so many firms competing for available professional staff, successful recruitment often comes down to achieving the right personality fit between employee and company. This year's Top 20 Under 40 honorees exemplify the heights that talented young employees can reach when they are in the right role or within a supportive team.

Selected from 75 applicants, the 20 individuals profiled include innovators, leaders and philanthropists. Some also juggle demanding job and family commitments, trying to achieve a healthy work-life balance.