Julie Sweet: Redefining Global Leadership for Modern Women
Who is Julie Sweet
Julie Sweet is the Chair & Chief Executive Officer of Accenture - one of the world’s largest consulting and digital-services firms.
She first became CEO in September 2019, and in September 2021 also took on the role of Chair of the Board.
Before that, she was CEO of Accenture’s North America business (its largest market), and prior to joining Accenture, she spent a decade as a partner at the prominent law firm Cravath, Swaine & Moore.
Her background -rom law to business leadership - is unusual, and underscores her versatility, resilience, and ability to succeed across environments.
Early Life & Career Path
Julie was born and raised in Tustin, California. Her parents came from modest backgrounds (her father was an automobile painter, mother was a beautician).
Encyclopedia Britannica
She studied international relations at Claremont McKenna College (graduated 1989), then earned a law degree (J.D.) from Columbia Law School in 1992.
Encyclopedia Britannica
After law school, she joined Cravath, Swaine & Moore. She became one of the very few women to make partner and even helped open the firm’s Hong Kong office.
Encyclopedia Britannica
In 2010, she made a bold pivot -shifting from a successful law career into business by joining Accenture as General Counsel.
This path shows that leadership doesn’t always follow a straight line- ambition, skills and adaptability matter.
Leadership at Accenture: Achievements & Vision
Since taking over as CEO, Julie Sweet has led Accenture through a major transformation. Some highlights:
She has steered the firm into becoming a leader in digital, cloud, AI and data services - aligning with the global shift toward technology-led business.
Under her leadership, Accenture’s global workforce has grown significantly, and the company has made aggressive investments and acquisitions -expanding capabilities across multiple domains.
Julie has emphasized the idea that leaders must be “reinventors” - constantly evolving with changing times, embracing new mindsets, skills, and communication styles to guide organizations through transformation.
Her approach combines business strategy with a human-centric leadership style: she stresses that technology (like AI) can enhance work - but genuine human connection, trust, and leadership still matter most.
Advocacy, Values & Influence -What Makes Her a Role Model for Women
Julie Sweet isn’t just a corporate leader -she’s also a strong advocate for diversity, inclusion, and ethical business practices.
She has been a vocal supporter of gender parity, diversity in workforce - pushing for inclusive workplaces where women and under-represented groups have fair opportunities.
She sits on several prominent boards and global councils, including the board of trustees of the World Economic Forum (WEF), the Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS), and more- influencing policy around technology, business, education, and social impact.
Her journey - from modest roots, through law, and then to the top of a global corporation - shows that perseverance, learning, and adaptability can break traditional barriers. For many women and young professionals worldwide, she is a powerful example of what’s possible.
