We recently caught up with Amy at HFW to find out more about the firm’s PROUD Networks…
Introduction to yourself and your route into HFW
I am a Team Leader and Resource Manager at HFW. I joined the firm a week before the UK announced the March 2020 lockdown, so it was an interesting time to be new! I joined as a PA in the Shipping group and moved to the Insurance and Reinsurance group to be their Team Leader in August 2020. Prior to HFW, I worked in the private jet industry in sales and dispatching and then as a PA / Paralegal at other law firms in the City.
What were the main reasons you wanted to join HFW over other firms?
I have always worked for small companies, there were only around 25 of us at my previous firm. When my recruiter approached me about a role at HFW, I thought it would be a nice change to work for a global firm and it would give me the opportunity to progress in my career, which it has!
Please could you give us a general insight into what diversity, inclusion, equity and belonging looks like at HFW
The firm has five employee networks that focus on several D&I related topics including LGBTQ+ inclusion, Mental Wellbeing, Gender Equality, Social Mobility and Race & Ethnicity. These networks feed into the firm's Diversity & Inclusion Committee which oversees the firm's wider strategy.
Could you please share more detail on the PROUD Network and how it is run?
HFW has two active PROUD Networks centred in London and across our three Australian offices. The networks consist of over 60 members globally (both LGBTQ+ colleagues and allies) and are chaired by Richard Neylon, a London Partner within the Shipping & Complex Environments Team and Ella Wallwork, a Senior Associate within the Construction Team. Both networks have small working groups who take a lead on organising activities, socials, and fundraising events.
How does this network support employees at HFW?
The networks serve to provide a sense of community for LGBTQ+ colleagues, promote allyship and educate the firm on a range of topics through events around LGBT History Month and Pride.
Anything else you’d like to add on diversity at HFW or anything else more generally?
The networks offer a great opportunity to meet, engage and collaborate with colleagues who share similar backgrounds and perspectives from across our different offices and who are committed to supporting the firm's progress on D&I.