In celebration of International Women’s Day 2017, Michelmores has launched a new initiative − Women @ Michelmores, aiming to support the progression of female lawyers and other female staff in the workplace, and to provide a forum to promote gender inclusivity within the Firm.
Women @ Michelmores sees the Firm launch a new Workplace Allies Group, to discuss and action the business case for gender inclusivity for Michelmores. The Firm has also created a Career Goals workshop, specifically aimed at female solicitors to provide them with the skills and knowledge to overcome any obstacles they may face in achieving their own career aspirations.
It is widely accepted across the legal sector that there is a gap between the number of females qualifying into the law and the number of females at Partnership level. Over 50% of newly qualified lawyers are female, yet according to the Solicitors Regulatory Authority the percentage of female Partners at larger firms (50+ Partners) is less than 30%.
Carol McCormack, Partner and Chair of Michelmores’ Diversity & Inclusivity Committee, said:
“The legal profession has traditionally been male-dominated, however we have seen more and more women at Michelmores rising to senior positions and becoming excellent role models for younger generations coming through the profession.
“We have already made good progress in redressing the gender balance within our business – but there is more work to be done. Women @ Michelmores will be a key initiative allowing us to engage with men and women across our business, to ensure females are able to reach their full potential without barriers in the way.”
Last year, 64% of all Partner, Senior Associate and Director promotions at Michelmores went to females, boosting representation of females in senior roles at Michelmores. The number of female Partners has grown in recent year to 30%, whilst 29% of Executive and Management Board roles are occupied by female – numbers the Firm intends to increase.
Supporting the development of females is a key objective of the Firm’s Ambition 2020 People’ strand and a focus of the Firm’s Diversity & Inclusivity Group.
