Jenny Arrowsmith

Working closely with clients to understand the recurring and emerging people issues they are facing, I enjoy identifying practical ways to strengthen HR and management capability, manage risk more confidently and stay ahead of legal change.

One example of this is the delivery of practical training for managers, including training on the duty to take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual and third-party harassment.

I’ve been really proud of the work I’ve done on equality, diversity and inclusion issues. I spoke publicly about menopause in the workplace, including with the BBC, at a time when it was rarely discussed openly.

I’ve recently been involved in a Court of Appeal case concerning one of the most complex and fast-developing issues in the modern workplace: how employers should balance an individual’s right to hold and express a protected religion or philosophical belief, with the need to maintain a respectful, inclusive workplace, free from unlawful discrimination or harassment.

This area of law is rooted in fundamental human rights and equality legislation, and the balance is not always easy to get right, particularly where views are strongly held or competing rights are engaged. It is a fascinating area, and I’ve enjoyed helping clients with the varied situations they face.

My expertise is recognised both through independent legal directories, including Chambers and Partners and Legal 500, and through client feedback gathered by our own internal client feedback programmes.

That feedback consistently reflects the qualities I aim to bring to every working relationship: approachable, pragmatic, empathetic, knowledgeable and easy to work with, while providing clear advice that helps clients move matters forward with confidence.

Chambers and Partners states:

• “I cannot recommend Jenny enough. She has a natural empathy and wants to really understand issues at play and how they could potentially affect our business.”
• “She builds strong relationships with clients and inspires confidence through her sound judgement and balanced advice.”

Legal 500 refers to me as a “standout” for employment matters and acknowledges my ability to offer “practical advice and solutions to complex issues" with “a quick turnaround when advice and guidance is needed".