“I’m fundamentally opposed to quotas for women in the same way that I would be for quotas for blue eyed people”
Such was the opinion of one of the panellists at the “Female Partner Quotas for Law Firms” interactive breakfast seminar earlier this year, organised by the Professional Practices Alliance. Panellists and attendees alike debated their views on whether or not law firms should adopt mandatory quotas or voluntary targets to increase female representation in law firms at partnership level.
The seminar covered thought-provoking ideas and challenges discussed on how firms may seek to break down the barriers that may be preventing greater gender diversity in law firm partnerships, including adopting supportive workplace mentoring initiatives, flexible working and family friendly rights and even considering changes to traditional partnership structures to remove obstacles to female lawyer promotion, progression and retention.
Anne O’Neill, Partner at Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, and
David Shufflebotham, Chief People Officer at Osborne Clark.
and accounting specialist advisers,
Buzzacott LLP, Maurice Turnor Gardner LLP, CM Murray LLP & Hierons LLP
www.professionalpracticesalliance.com
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