Baker McKenzie sprint to promote gender equality

In September, WIB corporate members and leading global law firm Baker McKenzie launched a four-week gender equality sprint with a different theme each week.

Wednesday 28 October 2020

Baker McKenzie sprint to promote gender equality

In September, WIB corporate members and leading global law firm Baker McKenzie launched a four-week gender equality sprint with a different theme each week. Kicking off from the starting blocks, in week one they promoted the Firm's Global Aspirational Target strategy to achieve 40:40:20 gender and non-binary split by 2025 by sharing a new microsite filled with practical tools and resources. Baker McKenzie is the first global law firm to make such a strong commitment.

In week two they focused on support and hosted a virtual Belfast LeanIn Circle, looking at rewriting the rules for women and work. The discussion was facilitated by Advance Coaching's Niamh Shiells and examined outdated gender constructs and the impact on women's career advancement.

Week three explored development and also encouraged male allyship. They ran an exclusive virtual Grit and Grace event with Jan Cunningham, Ulster Rugby's ex-international player, who now works as a Partner for local law firm Millar McCall Wylie. Jan was joined by a special panel including Baker's own Niall Holly, who plays Gaelic for County Derry. Two of the Firm's Directors, Eleanor Gilliland and Nora O'Hare, also shared their experiences and top tips on promoting equality and support for women to create successful careers.

Crossing the finish line, they celebrated the successful completion of their pilot mentoring program and congratulated all the mentees and mentors on their dedication to the program and each other.

The BakerWomen team received great feedback on the activities and events held as part of the sprint and are looking forward to marking International Men's Day in November.

Wednesday 28 October 2020