Lee Ashby Watts is the Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) at Bass, Berry & Sims. Lee works to advance diversity, equity and inclusion and to support the recruitment, retention and advancement of underrepresented lawyers and professionals. Lee has over 20 years of experience in the legal industry, helping law firms, attorneys and legal professionals develop and implement strategic plans.

Lee brings a keen understanding of communications and client service, having worked in legal marketing and business development for most of her career. Prior to joining Bass, Berry & Sims, Lee led a consulting firm where she coached, trained and consulted with hundreds of leaders. Previously, she served in a variety of roles within law firms, including as the Chief Marketing Officer at global law firm Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP for nearly a decade.

Lee is a certified coach in business development, as well as a frequent facilitator and speaker where she addresses personal branding, public speaking, marketing, diversity and inclusion. She sits on the board of the Legal Marketing Association Southeast and the nonprofit organization Kate’s Club. She is also a member of the professional women’s network CHIEF, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, Junior League of Atlanta and ColorComm. Lee is a blogger and contributor for Forbes Communications Council and a regular speaker for the Argyle Network, TechBridge Inc., among other platforms and organizations.