Clifford Chance

Clifford Chance Ranks Number 1 in Stonewall's Top 100 Employers of 2023

International law firm Clifford Chance has been ranked number one in this year's Stonewall top 100 Employers list, after eight years of being recognised as top 50 and claiming third place last year. The list celebrates exceptional employers who are committed to supporting their LGBTQ+ employees and championing LGBTQ+ equality across the UK. This recognition highlights the firm's commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can be their authentic selves and reach their full potential. The firm has also been awarded a Gold Award for commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion at work and its affinity network, Arcus, has received the Highly Commended Network Group Award, which is given to the organisations with the highest scores in the Network Activity section of the Index.

Michael Bates, Clifford Chance UK Managing partner, comments: "Our employees are our greatest asset, and we are proud to provide a supportive and empowering environment where they can thrive. We believe that diversity drives innovation and creativity leading to better outcomes for our people, our business and our clients. Coming first in the UK Stonewall index is a great honour for us and a tribute to the work of so many people at every level of the firm. We know that there is always more to do as we work together to deliver a truly inclusive experience for our people, clients and stakeholders and we are committed to doing that."

Over the years, the firm's policies have evolved to meet the needs of its LGBTQ+ employees to ensure they are protected and supported. This includes transition-related treatments and LGBTQ-inclusive mental health support included within the firm's healthcare benefits.

Deon Fang, Co-Chair of Clifford Chance’s UK LGBTQ+ & Allies Network Arcus alongside Co-Chair Georgina Court, said: "We are honoured to be recognised as the top employer for LGBTQ+ people by Stonewall. People from every part of Clifford Chance have worked together for years to affirm LGBTQ+ colleagues, build LGBTQ+ community and protect LGBTQ+ rights in the world. It is particularly meaningful to receive this recognition for the year we celebrated 15 years of Arcus. We are focused on working together across the spectrum of LGBTQ+ communities, because equality requires solidarity. Our work continues."

As part of the firm's ongoing efforts to support the LGBTQ+ community, the group hosts an annual Arcus Pride Art Exhibition, which is one of the largest corporate-supported exhibitions of art works by LGBTQ+ artists. This event not only showcases the talent of the artists but also sends a message of support and inclusion to our employees and wider community.

Other recognitions include the UK Employee Network of the Year in the 2022 Queer Student Awards, which acknowledged the firm's efforts to create a supportive and empowering work environment for all employees, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Clifford Chance has already achieved the target of 5% UK LGBTQ+ partners by 2025 and the firm continues to work towards the target of 3% Global LGBTQ+ partners by 2025. Further information on Clifford Chance's commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and equality can be found in its annual Responsible Business Report and its Inclusion target report.

Stonewall is the UK’s leading charity for lesbian, gay, bi and trans equality. The full Top 100 list this year can be found on the Stonewall website.