Diversity and inclusion (D&I) are integral to Burges Salmon’s firm-wide strategy, with the firm placing great value on a diverse workforce and the contribution that each individual makes to the firm. The firm’s culture is open, collaborative and inclusive, enabling it to recruit, retain and motivate the highest calibre of people across the business.
To ensure that its D&I priorities are being met, Burges Salmon has a Diversity and Inclusion Group that is tasked with supporting the delivery of the firm’s diversity and inclusion strategy.
Commenting on the appointment, Liz Dunn, Chair of the Burges Salmon’s Diversity and Inclusion Group, says: “In recognition of the reach and extent of the work that our Diversity and Inclusion Group undertakes, I am pleased to announce that Fiona has been appointed as our first ever Diversity and Inclusion manager.
“This is a really exciting appointment for the firm, which will see Fiona working closely with our D&I networks and groups across the business to enhance the great work they are doing, making sure we continue to foster an environment that is inclusive for everyone.”
As part of its commitment to diversity and inclusion, Burges Salmon has a number of established groups that continue to raise awareness within the firm and engage with external networks and contacts. These include:
- BProud – the firm’s well established LGBT+ network.
- BCultured – the firm’s BAME network, established in 2018 and already nominated for an award for best networking group.
- Family Matters - a network established for those with caring responsibilities in the firm.
- The Burges Salmon Disability Forum - open to anyone who wants to support the firm in being an accessible and inclusive place to work.
The firm will also shortly be launching its BBalanced network, which will focus on gender issues and engage both women and men across the firm.
Liz continues: “Over the next year we will be taking a more cohesive and holistic approach to diversity and inclusion. Now our groups are established, they will be more closely working together and we will also be collaborating with our new colleagues in Edinburgh to make sure our commitment to diversity and inclusion is as embedded there as it is here in Bristol.”
Fiona Smith concludes: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to take up the new role of Diversity & Inclusion manager at Burges Salmon and I’m looking forward to working closely with our D&I networks to progress diversity and inclusion across the firm.”