December Event Set To Offer Inspiration To Next Generation Of Female Lawyers

The next generation of female lawyers in Manchester are set for an early Christmas present, at a forthcoming event offering a masterclass on career progression and reaching their potential.

On Wednesday 4 December, from 5.00pm–7.30pm, the Manchester office of Irwin Mitchell is set to play host to a unique networking event, celebrating 100 Years of Women in Law.

The event at One St Peter’s Square is being organised by Women In The Law UK, and aims to support the next generation of female leaders in law and encourage their career progression.

An inspirational speaker will be followed by the opportunity for attendees to consult a panel comprised of key women in law. A networking session will conclude the event, providing women at various stages of their legal careers a unique opportunity to speak with senior women and men in detail about the profession.

Women in The Law UK is a not for profit professional networking organisation, supporting the next female leaders in law and Sally Penni, Barrister at Law Kenworthy's Chambers and the founder of the organisation will chair the event.

This event is part of several initiatives organised by Irwin Mitchell to mark 100 years of women in law. On 12 September, the Sheffield office was chosen to live stream the Fiona Woolf lecture; while IM Powered, Irwin Mitchell’s diversity group focusing on gender and career issues, developed a timeline on the progression of women at the firm since 1912.

Expert Opinion

“Events like this are important in ensuring we continue to offer female lawyers the support they need to reach their potential. Emmeline Pankhurst’s statue outside is a reminder of how far we have come and while Irwin Mitchell itself has made enormous strides since the 70s, these events show there is a real will to complete the job and a fitting way to mark 100 years of women in law.” Ros Bever - Partner

Irwin Mitchell embarked on a 40 year period of growth and modernisation in the 70s that now sees the firm able to boast one of the most diverse and inclusive workforces in the UK legal sector. Women make up 30% of the executive board, 44% of partners and 62% of associates. The firm had the 7^th lowest gender pay gap out of 109 law firms in 2018.

This year has seen Irwin Mitchell’s female lawyers continue to enjoy professional success on both the regional and national stage. Ania Bean won the PIC Clinical Negligence Rising Star Award in July 2019; while Chrissie Wolfe, was named Solicitor of the Year at the Birmingham Law Society Awards.

Drinks and canapes will follow the main event, which will include fundraising for one of the charitable causes supported by Women In The Law UK in Manchester. Tickets are still available and men and women, no matter what the stage of their legal career, are welcome to attend: get your ticket on the event's Eventbrite page.

The Women In The Law book will also be available to buy at the event, with all proceeds going to charity.