Debevoise & Plimpton LLP has achieved Mansfield 5.0 Certification, an honor awarded to U.S. law firms that demonstrate exceptional dedication and commitment to accountability, transparency and knowledge sharing in talent practices.

To receive Mansfield 5.0 Certification, Debevoise collaborated with Diversity Lab, an incubator for innovative ideas and solutions that boost diversity and inclusion in law, over a 12-month Certification period with built-in measurement, transparency and accountability mechanisms.

The purpose of Mansfield Certification is to increase and sustain diversity in leadership within law firms by broadening the pool of women lawyers, LGBTQ+ lawyers, lawyers with disabilities, and underrepresented racial and/or ethnic lawyers who are considered for senior lateral attorney job openings, firm governance opportunities, equity partner promotions and firm leadership positions.

“Creating a more inclusive community takes continual investment in support, resources and opportunity for diverse talent at different career stages and across the firm, every day in every way possible. It is an honor to be recognized by Diversity Lab for our commitment to systemic change for long-term success,” said partner Maeve O’Connor, Co-Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and Co-Chair of the firm’s Securities Litigation Practice.

Michael Gillespie, M&A partner and Co-Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, added “Diversity, equity and inclusion lie at the core of Debevoise’s promise of talent and service, and we are committed to cultivating a community where lawyers of color, women lawyers and LGBTQ+ lawyers can thrive. Meaningful change in the legal profession will only come about if firms work together to build inclusive communities. That’s why we value the knowledge sharing benefits afforded by participating in Mansfield and the opportunity to collaborate across firms and legal departments.”

Read the open letter from the 2021-2022 Mansfield 5.0 certified law firm leaders here.