How can we make sure everyone has a fair chance to succeed, no matter their gender, sexuality, ethnicity, disability or social mobility?

Just 2 per cent of all UK lawyers are Black, according to the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Join Excello Law CEO George Bisnought for this engaging webinar in which he will discuss with a panel of experts how the profession is working to foster a diverse and inclusive workforce. Why are firms failing to shift the diversity dial, what more can be done?

Join this speaker panel as they share creative approaches to making law firms more inclusive as well as personal stories that will inspire change. The discussion will help lawyers, regardless of their background, race or gender, to advance their careers in the world of law. This session will help lawyers gain valuable insights and contribute to a more diverse and accessible legal profession.

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Presenters:

George Bisnought, CEO, Excello Law

George Bisnought is the founder and managing director of Excello Law, a leading consultancy-model law firm. He qualified as a solicitor in 1991 and since that time, has worked extensively in the regions and the city within both industry and for law firms. George also holds a number of directorships mainly for companies in the software industry. In 2023 George set up the Pearlford Foundation to improve accessibility to the legal profession through mentorship and bursaries.

Joanne Losty, Director of Operations and Recruitment, Excello Law

Joanne Losty is an experienced commercial litigator solicitor with a background practising within in the City and large regional firms. After a five-year break following the birth of her second child, she faced challenges returning to work and eventually founded her own commercial law firm. In 2009, she was at the forefront of the transition to the consultancy legal model, joining Excello Law, where she swiftly ascended to the role of Director of Recruitment by 2011 and more recently as COO. Jo is a staunch advocate for women in the workplace. Her experiences as a mother navigating the barriers she faced within the legal profession has led her to advocate for alternative business models that support and empower women to break the glass ceiling.

 

Ranjit Sond, President, Society of Asian Lawyers / Lawyer, GLD

Sharon Thomas, Director, Black Counsel Forum

Sharon, a dedicated advocate for advancing the careers of Black lawyers, is the founder of Black Counsel Forum, which holds an annual careers convention for Black lawyers. Prior to that Sharon, a mother of 4, enjoyed a 25 year in-house career as a senior lawyer and leader for multi-billion dollar global technology businesses.

Moderator:

Jessica Boak, Deputy News Editor, The Lawyer

Jessica Boak is the Deputy News Editor at The Lawyer, having joined in June 2022. When not assisting with the production of The Lawyer’s news coverage, Jess covers developments within the legal market in the north of England and is primarily interested in ESG, energy and infrastructure.

 

Also speaking:

Sharon Thomas, Founder, Black Counsel Forum

Ranjit Sond, President, Society of Asian Lawyers