No other banking leader has emerged from the financial crisis with as much authority, or respect, as JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon. Under his leadership, JPMorgan has vaulted to near the top of almost every global investment banking ranking. For 2009 its revenue and profits appear headed toward record numbers.

Known for inspiring fierce loyalty among his subordinates and having a passion for detail, Dimon must now contend with a changed financial landscape, a swelling array of competitors (even Goldman Sachs is now a “bank”) and greater government intrusion into the everyday business of finance. And though only 53, he must ensure his legacy by providing for a strong successor.

He has begun by naming Jes Staley (see No. 11), formerly chief of the bank’s asset management arm, head of Morgan’s investment bank and by grooming a generation of 40-something leaders, including newly named asset management boss Mary Erdoes and CFO Mike Cavanagh.