DirectWomen, whose mission is to increase the representation of women lawyers on corporate boards, announced the members of its 2020 DirectWomen Board Institute class - comprised of general counsel of Fortune 500 companies, partners at top law firms, and leading lawyers from government and non-profit institutions. 

Tamara, who was identified through a rigorous search and selection process that involves a written application, reference letters, and a committee selection panel, is a leading legal expert in the financial industry, who has mentored rising stars in law, finance, management, and the sciences. She is one of seven members of Reed Smith’s senior management team, and holds a key position on the Executive Committee, the governing body that provides leadership to the 1700 lawyers in the organisation.

In addition, through her role as a founding member of the 30% Club steering committee, Tamara has been influential in encouraging corporations to diversify their boards by increasing the proportion of women. 

The mission of DirectWomen is to increase the representation of women lawyers on corporate boards. Peggy Heeg, Selection Committee Chair and 2009 DirectWomen Alumna, who is also a partner in Reed Smith’s Houston office, said: "The prestigious DirectWomen Board Institute provides a great opportunity for successful women attorneys to focus their business expertise and analytical skills for board service.

"The DirectWomen Board Institute taught me how to apply my experience and problem-solving skills in the boardroom and was instrumental in positioning me for my first board position."