Pilot part of a more flexible approach to work, says magic circle player
Clifford Chance is to offer some of its lawyers the option to take two months of unpaid leave as it looks to create a more flexible working environment.
Starting from this week, lawyers who are eligible for the pilot can apply for two months unpaid holiday during the 2019/20 financial year. Clifford Chance confirmed that the test run is open to London-based associates and senior associates in its finance, capital markets and TMT teams, as well as lawyers in its Spain, Italy and Istanbul offices.
On the question of whether a Clifford Chance lawyer could take advantage of the programme on a rolling basis, effectively working 10 out of 12 months each year, a spokesperson for the firm told Legal Cheek: “That’s not the current intention, but we will review fully once we have the feedback from the pilot.”
Meanwhile, the Canary Wharf-headquartered outfit revealed a second pilot programme aimed at welcoming ex-Clifford Chance lawyers back into the fold. The firm said alumni lawyers with the right skills will be able to apply to work on some of its projects, with the option to work remotely where appropriate.
Reflecting on the firm’s two-pronged approach to work flexibly, referred to collectively as Clifford Chance Choice, Laura King, partner and global head of people and talent, said:
“Clifford Chance prides itself on providing the best advice to clients on their most complex and critical work. People are our most valuable asset and we work hard to attract and develop the brightest and best. And with over 8,000 registered alumni working in over 3,000 organisations across 100 different countries, our alumni bring a wealth of experience and insights in every sector and region of the globe.”
