Simmons brings in formal work from home option for associates
Simmons & Simmons has introduced work from home arrangements across its UK offices in a bid to increase flexible working take-up.
November 30, 2014 at 07:08 PM
2 minute read
Simmons & Simmons has introduced flexible working arrangements across its UK offices, giving junior lawyers greater autonomy to work from home.
The firm has given all associates in Bristol and London the option of working from home for one day a week, without the need to seek consent beforehand.
Meanwhile Simmons last month launched a "sponsorship" scheme where all managing associates at the firm are assigned one of 30 senior equity partners as a mentor, in a bid to improve career progression and diversity in its partnership.
Senior partner Colin Passmore (pictured) said the initiative aims to ensure each fee-earner is given the right amount of consideration for promotion, and "help more of our talented individuals advance to partnership".
The firm is also working towards an aspirational target of 30% female representation among new lateral hires and managing associates, though Passmore told Legal Week: "One has to be realistic about the amount of time it takes to achieve 30% female representation [on these metrics]."
There is currently no timeframe for the gender diversity target.
Simmons has also kicked off an internal campaign to raise awareness of the flexible working options available to partners, lawyers and staff in London and Bristol.
Last year Passmore led an informal consultation with associates reviewing the firm's use of flexible working, including how to staff and manage large projects.
The firm launched a pilot flexi-working scheme in 2011 allowing fee earners, including partners, to agree a percentage reduction in their annual working hours, with the flexibility to choose how much time to take off. However, the firm did not continue the initiative, citing limited interest.
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