Diverse Backgrounds : Global Perspectives

From a programmatic standpoint, we place particular emphasis on retention.  Some highlights include:

• Mandatory firm-wide diversity and inclusion training at all levels of our organization;
• A prioritization of skill-building training, as evidenced by our innovative Reed Smith University - a curriculum-driven training program designed in partnership with the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania to give our lawyers the tools they need to reach their full potential with respect to substantive legal skills, leadership skills and business development skills;
• Reed Smith's new, state-of-the-art career development initiative, CareeRS - a systematic development program that will cover all aspects of performance management, including competencies, assessments, development programs (staffing, secondments, mentoring, coaching, etc.), training and more;
• An institutional commitment to mentoring at all levels of the organization;
• An emphasis on diversity-focused skill building and networking opportunities;
• The development of an Associate Liaison system designed to foster communication between diverse associates and Diversity Committee members to allow the Diversity Committee to better address issues that arise;
• A written work/life balance policy that makes it clear that taking advantage of alternative work arrangements does not eliminate associates from the partnership track;
• The creation of subcommittees to the Diversity Committee which are charged with strengthening our efforts and sharpening our focus in a variety of key areas, including mentoring, best practices and GLBT issues; and
• A system that rewards its lawyers' pro bono and diversity efforts and contributions.

The Diversity Committee, with the assistance of other partners and practice group leaders, also has been engaged actively in retention efforts and has kept watchful eyes on our minority associates and counsel, in particular, to ensure that they are being treated fairly and are on-track to meet their professional goals.  Tyree Jones, the Director of Diversity, personally monitors the annual performance appraisals and monthly billable hours of our minority associates to ensure that issues that arise are addressed promptly and effectively.