Contributors
Womble Bond Dickinson's commitment to fostering diversity in the chemicals industry has been recognised after the firm won the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Award at the NEPIC Awards 2025.
The NEPIC Industry Awards, which celebrate the outstanding achievements of companies and individuals in the North East England chemicals sector, introduced the EDI award for the first time this year.
As one of the few law firms nationally with a specialist chemicals practice, Womble Bond Dickinson has demonstrated a passion for improving diversity and inclusion across the chemicals sector harnessing some of the lessons learned in the legal sector. The firm's dedication is demonstrated through various initiatives and events aimed at continuing to improve gender diversity and promoting equitable practices.
Over the course of 2024, Womble Bond Dickinson expanded its “Women in…” series, which not only seeks to include external reach to clients but also focuses on understanding the issues faced by women in particular sectors. The series, led by the firm's Thrive network, has reached more than 150 clients in the Technology, Property, and Chemicals sectors. A notable event within this series was held at the Wilton Centre in Teesside (where the firm has an office) in March 2024. The Wilton Centre is at the heart of the region's chemicals sector. The event was spearheaded by partners Sarah Daun and Peter Snaith, who lead the firm’s chemicals practice and have a combined experience of over 40 years in the sector. The second in that series of events was held only a few weeks ago and looked at the impact of Imposter Syndrome. These events have focussed on the career journeys of the industry leaders that took part and their views on influencing gender diversity.
Partner Sarah Daun, a prominent advocate for EDI in the sector, commented:
“Winning this award is a testament to our team's relentless efforts to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion both internally and within the chemical sector. Our collaboration with NEPIC and our clients in the chemicals and process industries has helped to shine a light on some of the challenges women face but also some of the brilliant steps and initiatives the sector is progressing to address those challenges.”
Womble Bond Dickinson remains committed to sharing its expertise and supporting gender diversity through its in-house networks and collaborations with chemical sector businesses. The firm continues to be a driving force for positive change within the industry, emphasising the benefits of diverse and inclusive workplaces.
