Marilyn Carlson Nelson

Tough times for Marilyn and her sister Barbara Carlson Gage; combined fortune down $1 billion in a year. Their Carlson Companies is heavily invested in hotels (Radisson, Country Inns & Suites), restaurants (T.G.I. Friday's), travel agencies, all industries hit by slowing U.S. economy. Inherited family empire from father, Curtis, who founded Gold Bond Stamp 1938. Renamed grocery store promotion outfit as Carlson Companies 1973. Marilyn stepped down as chief executive in March. Principal Occupation: Chairman of the Board, Carlson. Recent Business Experience: Mrs. Nelson was elected Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Carlson in 1998, and relinquished the role of CEO in 2008. She has held a number of other management positions at Carlson including President, Chief Operating Officer, Vice Chair and Senior Vice President.