The awards run by Diversity Works New Zealand are now in their 22nd year and recognise organisations which are leaders in promoting and supporting workplace diversity and inclusion.

This year the judges selected 37 finalists from 76 entries, and the firm has been shortlisted alongside three other finalists for the Empowerment Award. The category celebrates innovative responses to empowering women in the workplace.

The firm has long been a market leader in running a diverse organisation., The firm’s gender diversity initiatives have created a culture which, supported by formal policies, has removed some of the traditional barriers to women reaching senior levels.

Emma Gibbins, People Director, said, “Kensington Swan currently has 30 full-equity partners, of whom 11, or 36%, are women. This is something we are proud to be championing within the legal profession. It is fantastic that the work the firm is doing to advance gender equity in the workplace has been independently recognised with our selection in the shortlist. Our ultimate aim is to enable our talented staff, irrespective of gender, to have the successful careers that their expertise and diligence deserve.”

“We have a strong focus on empowering all our people regardless of their gender,” said Charles Spillane, Kensington Swan (now Dentons Kensington Swan)’s CEO. “It is fantastic that the firm is a finalist for this prestigious award as it recognises our commitment to, and progression we have made in, creating a workplace where all our people are able to achieve their full potential. There is still a long way to go to achieve the balance we believe is needed. As a firm we are committed to helping empower our staff to break down barriers that have traditionally existed.”

We also acknowledge and congratulate the other finalists in the category, being:
Fisher & Paykel Healthcare
She Sharp
Vector Ltd

Winners will be announced at a Gala Dinner event at the Cordis in Auckland on Wednesday, August 28. The full list of finalists announced can be viewed here.

Read more about the awards here.

About Dentons

Across over 80 countries, Dentons helps you grow, protect, operate and finance your organization by providing uniquely global and deeply local legal solutions. Polycentric, purpose-driven and committed to inclusion, diversity, equity and sustainability, we focus on what matters most to you. www.dentons.com