Susannah Donaldson

The new practice addresses a broader challenge facing organisations when equality issues arise, by identifying and tackling the root cause as well as solving the legal matter.

The practice will be jointly led by legal directors Susannah Donaldson and Kate Dodd who are based in Edinburgh and Manchester, respectively.

Ms Donaldson said: “Diverse and inclusive businesses are more profitable, more innovative, and better placed to engage with their shareholders, clients, and incoming talent.

“Boardrooms are no longer discussing whether a change is needed, but how that change is achieved. As a professional services firm with law at the core, our new practice bridges a crucial gap in the process and helps organisations to become an employer of choice.”

Ms Dodd added: “Dealing with equality or discrimination matters in isolation fails to get to the root of the issue and left unmanaged, is highly damaging to culture.

“Our deep sectoral knowledge, and experience in helping multi-national businesses to navigate both jurisdictional laws and cultural sensitivities, means we are well placed to guide clients through challenges that are very specific to their industry and region.”