Contributors
International law firm Womble Bond Dickinson (WBD) has been named a finalist for Recruitment Programme of the Year at the annual UK Social Mobility Awards (SOMOs).
The Awards were established to recognise and celebrate forward-thinking organisations that are actively creating positive social change for their employees and in their communities, by embedding social mobility initiatives into their core business strategy.
Since their launch in 2017, the SOMOs have become an important platform for promoting social mobility in the UK and have attracted entries from leading organisations across the country, spanning multiple sectors.
Tunde Banjoko OBE, Founder of the UK Social Mobility Awards, said:
“Our vision is for every employer and educator in the UK to guide meaningful action to achieve socio-economic diversity, equity and inclusion, so we’re thrilled with the action shown by this year’s finalists.”
WBD has been named as finalists in the Recruitment Programme of the Year category after taking some exciting steps to make the firm's recruitment process more inclusive, fair, and accessible.
The firm has increased its use of the RARE Contextual Recruitment System (CRS) for all early talent applications. This measures social disadvantage and academic performance in context, helping us to spot hidden gems and high achievers from diverse backgrounds.
WBD has also streamlined its application process, making it more user-friendly and less daunting by using a simplified application form and a blended online assessment that measures potential in line with our recently refreshed Early Talent behavioural framework.
The firm has focused on eligibility and potential over academics, removing any academic requirements and not assessing the school or university attended, hosted pre-assessment webinars, where candidates can get coaching and advice for each recruitment stage and organised supported work placements for candidates with disabilities or additional needs.
Sam Lee, Head of Recruitment at WBD, said:
“We are thrilled to be shortlisted for this prestigious award, which recognises our commitment to diversity and inclusion in recruitment programmes. We believe that talent is everywhere, and we want to attract and nurture the best people from all backgrounds and experiences. This nomination is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our recruitment team, our business leaders, and our Early Talent community, who have embraced our vision of creating an inclusive culture where everyone can thrive."
Winners for the awards are determined by an independent judging panel, made up of leading figures from business, charity, and the public sector, chaired by the HM Lord Lieutenant of London, Sir Kenneth Olisa OBE.
The winners will be announced at an in-person awards gala in London on Thursday 3 October 2024.
