Dr Gift Sotonye-Frank (Lecturer/Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Champion) and Deirdre Timoney (Employability & Placement Officer) facilitated a session on Wednesday between black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) students and selected employers.
The discussion focus was the deficit of BAME representation in the legal sector, perhaps stemming from systemic barriers such as unconscious bias in recruitment processes, lack of mentorship and networking opportunities, as well as entrenched stereotypes and discrimination - all of which hinder the full realization of diversity and inclusion in this field. Students began by discussing their experiences of interacting with graduate recruiters. This led to a wider discussion about employers implementing strategies such as unconscious bias training, targeted recruitment efforts, and mentorship programmes – all intending to foster inclusive hiring practices.
We extend our appreciation to our students for sharing their experiences and to Ted Jensen from QUB’s Widening Participation unit for his input. We also thank our partner employers for outlining the diversity approaches already in place and for their willingness to tease out how these could be further expanded to better support law students. Participating staff from companies included Marie McKeown (Carson McDowell), Sara Fisher (Factor Law), Busola Olayode (Kainos), Gill Warwick (Pinsent Masons) and Michael O'Neill (PwC).
The BMW Group UK legal team provides comprehensive, expert legal and associated advice, direction, and guidance to the UK Group Companies, both on campus and at other locations such as Oxford (MINI) and Chichester (Rolls-Royce Motor Cars).
They actively identify and advise upon any areas of legal risk; protect, represent, and maintain the wider interests and strategic objectives of BMW Group; conduct significant, high-value, and/or strategic litigation/disputes; advise on corporate and organisational re-structuring; ensure compliance with applicable legal/regulatory obligations; draft, negotiate and advise on commercial arrangements; and identify and provide appropriate training/legal updates to ensure compliance with and awareness of legal obligations.
The legal placement assistant will:
Applicants must be studying towards an LLB (Hons) or BA (Hons) degree, which includes Law with a predicted grade of 2:1 or higher. They must also have excellent communication skills, and a good working knowledge of Microsoft Office tools (Word, Powerpoint, Excel).
This post offers a competitive annual salary of £23,700, 27 days holiday (pro rata to your contract), and an attractive pension scheme.
Full details can be found on the MyFuture portal; the application deadline is Sunday, 17th March 2024.
Any queries should be emailed to: [email protected]
Interested students can apply at: