Mary Ulmer Jones
Mary Ulmer-Jones is a seasoned attorney and leader with over three decades of experience in labor and employment law, litigation, diversity and inclusion, and leadership development. She currently serves as Managing Director of Bluegrass Workplace Solutions LLC, where she provides legal counsel and consulting services to employers, individuals, and nonprofit organizations. Prior to this role, she spent 33 years at Bank of America, where she served as Associate General Counsel and led strategic legal initiatives supporting a global workforce of over 180,000 employees. Mary is recognized for her calm leadership, strategic mindset, and dedication to creating inclusive, high-performing work environments.
Throughout her career, Mary has been a strong advocate for healthy work environments where her coworkers bring their whole selves to work and succeed together. She has held numerous leadership roles within affinity groups, DEI councils, and community boards, including serving as an Executive Sponsor to the Disability Action Network and as a board member for organizations like The Theatrical Outfit and Pebble Tossers. A proud graduate of the University of Kentucky and its College of Law, Mary also served as the Chair of the Political Science Department Alumni Board. Known for her mentorship, practical legal guidance, and positive energy, she continues to impact both the legal and broader business communities through her commitment to integrity, development, and service.
• J.D.
• University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law- J.D.
• University of Kentucky- B.A.
• Georgia Association of Women Lawyers
• Atlanta Bar Association Corporate Counsel Section
• Association of Corporate Counsel Georgia Chapter
• Year Up Greater Atlanta
• Theatrical Outfit Theater
• Pebble Tossers Inc.
• University of Kentucky
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to staying open-minded and seizing opportunities as they came. I found purpose—not only in my legal practice but also in working hard to build lasting relationships throughout my career. I am invested in creating cultures that allow us to be our best selves in our work and our daily lives. I thrive on championing success for those around me and I delight in seeing others grow as teammates and leaders. If you work with me you appreciate my subject matter expertise but also my ability to build up those around me so they can enjoy their workplace while working to meet expectations.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received was from a mentor who told me not to waste time dwelling on the past—focus on what’s in front of you and where you want to go. That guidance helped me shift my mindset, and after two years of reflection, I realized I wanted to start my own business and consulting firm.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to prioritize building relationships rooted in integrity and kindness—those connections often become your greatest assets throughout your career. Also, take time to understand what you truly enjoy and value in your work; aligning with your purpose will help you navigate expectations and lead to long-term fulfillment and success.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
My biggest opportunities are to utilize my deep relationships to continue to build my business and provide value driven advice to reach resolution. I thrive on the challenge of building a business based on my many years of experience. I have so much to offer and I look forward to sharing it with both companies and individuals seeking a productive workplace.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty and integrity are the foundation of everything I do, and I strive to lead with kindness and compassion both in my work and personal life. I value the ability to make work life rewarding and supportive for everyone on the team.