In 2011, this accounting and consulting firm sought to accelerate the progression of female senior managers to partner by connecting a few of its top women with sponsors and stretch assignments. It was just another step in its larger effort to bolster women’s advancement across the firm, where all employees are paired with career advisors and networking events are generated at a rapid clip. Up-and-coming female leaders are energized by the firm’s active women’s network, its mentoring circles and an 18-month leadership development program; those who are under consideration for a role in the partnership may be paired with existing female partners to prepare. Moms with an eye on moving up trade tips in a new working parents affinity group and benefit from recently expanded flex training.

CEO Jack Weisbaum

Executive Director, HR & Diversity Chair Hang Bower

Women managers/execs 38%

Women hires in 2011 46%

Average weeks of fully paid maternity leave offered 9

Offers paid paternity leave? Yes

Offers paid adoption leave? Yes

Women in affinity groups in 2011 44%

Offers backup child care? Yes

Employees working flexibly 99%