Ida Abbott

Ida Abbott is a professional consultant focusing on the power of mentoring relationships to guide, support, and transform professional careers from the beginning of practice through retirement. She has long been a leader in the field of talent management, particularly mentoring, sponsorship, and the advancement of women into leadership. In recognition of her lifetime contributions, she has been elected a fellow of both the American Bar Foundation and the College of Law Practice Management. Over more than four decades as a lawyer and legal consultant, Abbott has held leadership positions in numerous bar associations, women’s organizations, and professional organizations in the US and internationally. She was a cofounder of the Hastings Leadership Academy for Women and the Professional Development Consortium, where she serves as a trusted advisor. She is a sought-after speaker and the author of several seminal books, including The Lawyer’s Guide to Mentoring, 2d Edition, and Sponsoring Women: What Men Need to Know. She lives in Oakland, California.