Women To Watch Awards 2026 honors Tara Jackson

Tara Jackson is a Partner at Akerman LLP, where she represents companies and underwriters in complex capital markets transactions, governance matters, and securities law compliance. She advises NYSE- and Nasdaq-listed issuers on at-the-market offerings, PIPEs, registered directs, follow-on offerings, and other equity and debt financings, guiding clients through every stage of the deal process with precision and strategic insight.

Beyond her transactional practice, Tara counsels boards and executive teams on ’34 Act reporting and compliance, corporate governance, and regulatory best practices, bringing a steady, solutions-oriented approach to her clients.

Throughout her legal career, Tara has also served in senior in-house legal roles, giving her a business-first perspective that informs her counsel. She understands how legal decisions intersect with operational and strategic priorities, allowing her to deliver advice that is both technically sound and commercially practical.

Recognized for her leadership, intellect, and impact, Tara is one of the few Black women in the securities and capital markets field. She is widely respected for her ability to blend technical mastery with strategic and practical business judgment, helping clients and colleagues navigate the intersection of law, markets, and corporate growth.

A firm believer in mentorship and expanding access, Tara is deeply committed to developing the next generation of lawyers. She actively invests in mentoring young attorneys and first-generation professionals, reflecting her conviction that excellence carries an obligation to uplift others. Through her work, she continues to embody the principle of paying it forward, using her platform to open doors and help others rise.