Diversity Initiative: Aviva Will, co-chief operating officer, Burford Capital
"People always ask if I would be upset if others, including our competitors, were to use the same economic incentives for change. My answer is a resounding no—by all means, we welcome anyone and everyone who is committed to change!"
October 06, 2022 at 01:01 PM
3 minute read
What are your proudest accomplishments in the area of diversity and inclusion in law? Launching The Equity Project in 2018 was certainly a proud moment in my career, but it is the success of the initiative that makes me proudest. When we first launched in 2018, we earmarked $50 million to back commercial matters led by women. After having committed more than that amount by December 2020, Burford announced an expansion of the initiative in October 2021, earmarking a further $100 million, broadening the mission to promote both racial and gender diversity in law and pledging to contribute a portion of its balance sheet profits from successfully resolved phase two matters to organizations that promote development for female and racially diverse lawyers on clients' behalf. In a short period of time, we have committed a significant amount of capital toward our mission, and out cumulative commitments to back female and diverse lawyers now exceed $100 million. The Equity Project is core to Burford's culture and a part of our daily work, and I'm really proud of our team's commitment to making a difference.
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