MinterEllisonRuddWatts’ leadership of greater gender diversity and gender initiatives in the legal profession was again recognised at the Asia-Pacific Women in Business Law Awards 2023, with the firm taking out the award for ‘National Firm of the Year for Gender Diversity’.

MinterEllisonRuddWatts’ Chief Executive, Andrew Poole said: “We believe that gender diversity is essential to our success, and we are committed to creating a workplace and profession where everyone feels welcome and valued. 

“This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our partners and staff, who are all committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive workplace, fuelled by diversity of thought, gender, culture and experience.”

Partner Sarah Salmond was also named ‘International Trade Lawyer of the Year’ at the awards held in Singapore overnight.

Sarah is widely regarded as New Zealand’s leading lawyer advising corporates on domestic and international trade and financial sanctions matters. She assists her clients to address the challenges associated with trading goods and services across national borders.

On hearing of her award win, Sarah said: “I’m deeply honoured to receive the International Trade Lawyer of the Year award. It's a nod to all the significant trade deals, compliance questions and disputes our clients have progressed in the past year. I would like to thank my clients for the wonderful opportunities and my amazing firm and team, without which this would not have happened”.

The Women in Business Law Awards celebrate the advancement of women in the legal industry in the Asia-Pacific region, with firms from New Zealand, Australia and greater Asia competing to take top honours. The awards recognise the best initiatives for gender diversity, innovation, mentoring, work-life balance, pro bono work and talent management.

MinterEllisonRuddWatts has a longstanding commitment to progress gender equality and has several programmes that mentor and support women in law.