Yvette Ostolaza

Yvette Ostolaza is a distinguished legal professional known for her expertise in corporate law and her trailblazing leadership in the legal industry. She is the first Hispanic, and first woman, to ever lead the 157-year-old prestigious law firm Sidley Austin.

Born and raised in the United States by Cuban American parents, Ostolaza embarked on her journey in law after obtaining her Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctor degrees from the University of Miami and its law school. Throughout her career, Ostolaza has held several prominent positions in the legal sphere, solidifying her reputation as a highly respected figure in corporate law. With a focus on mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance, and securities regulation, she has provided invaluable counsel to a diverse array of clients, ranging from startups to multinational corporations.

Ostolaza has been a leading corporate voice on women’s reproductive rights in the wake of the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision. She has played an instrumental role in fostering diversity and inclusion within the legal profession, advocating for equal opportunities for women and minorities. In 2023, she created an MBA-level training program, Built to Lead, with Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management and Columbia’s Business School, whose mission is to educate the next generation of lawyers on business leadership skills critical to working with top corporations.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Ostolaza is known for her philanthropic work and active involvement in community initiatives. She remains a steadfast advocate for social justice and civic engagement, using her platform to effect positive change in society.