George W

BPP university alumni

My Law Firm

Profile:

“Diversity” can sometimes feel like a buzzword.  The legal profession has, however, made real progress over the past few years: there is now little sense of ‘tokenism’, with individuals of all levels (including firm leaders) genuinely recognising the value of diversity in the workplace and taking active steps to ensure a more diverse and representative organisation.

Diversity characteristics are a positive in the workplace – and I have certainly had this experience.  Society does not consist of ‘one type’ of person and nor should legal teams. A broad church of backgrounds, views, experiences are essential to generate ideas and present new perspectives.  Further, clients are expecting more from their lawyers (and they expect their lawyers to also reflect their own diverse teams).

Whilst a lot has been done in many areas, there are inevitably still challenges.  As a gay man, and both the first in my family to go to university and the first to enter the legal profession, I understand the incredible challenges faced when trying to enter a career in law and how it can sometimes feel that the odds are stacked against you. Formal programmes (such as Aspiring Solicitors’ initiatives and the Freshfields Stephen Lawrence Scheme) have made real inroads and are absolutely fantastic, but sometimes a quick chat with someone in the industry who has already trod the path can also be invaluable.

As an AS Mentor, I hope that I can draw upon my experiences over the past 6+ years to help you start your (hopefully long and successful (!)) career in law.  Whatever stage you are at, and whether a career in law is your lifelong passion or just an avenue you are considering, please feel free to reach out with any questions, queries, or thoughts.  I look forward to hearing from you.

I studied Economics at the University of Birmingham, staying in Birmingham for my GDP at BPP before making the move to London for the Accelerated LPC.  Having participated in the Pathways to Law scheme throughout my A-Levels, where I undertook skills sessions and work experience with both firms of solicitors and with barristers, I was reasonably set on a career in the law.  I undertook several open days and networking events, before completing my training contract with Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, where I ultimately stayed upon qualification.  I am now an Associate in the Antitrust, Competition, and Trade practice group at Freshfields.  I have been an AS Mentor since 2016.

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