Quisumbing Torres > Manila, Philippines > Firm Profile

Quisumbing Torres
16TH FLOOR, ONE/NEO BUILDING
26TH STREET CORNER 3RD AVENUE, CRESCENT PARK WEST
BONIFACIO GLOBAL CITY, TAGUIG 1634
Philippines

Philippines > Antitrust and competition Tier 1

The group at Quisumbing Torres maintains its strong reputation for handling complex matters relating to the antitrust elements of acquisitions and joint ventures. The team well-placed to assist both international and domestic corporations, with competition compliance and the determination of risk, in addition to handling complex cartel investigation cases. Alain Charles Veloso is noted for his ‘perfect approach’, while Michael Macapagal is considered ‘an expert in the field’ by clients. Promoted to partner in June 2024 Lara Camille Lee is a key name within the team. Maria Christina Macasaet-Acaban leads the team, and is recommended for her expertise in corporate and M&A.

Practice head(s):

Maria Christina Macasaet-Acaban

Testimonials

‘The firm is more than a law firm but has diversified and used their business development to offer other value added services that clients like us appreciate. We value their legal updates, networking events and sharing of research resources. They create opportunities for connection.’

‘Alain Charles Veloso is a certified rainmaker, always finding ways to introduce solutions to clients without any expectation of being engaged. His approach is perfect.’

‘Michael Macapagal is an expert in the field of pharma and dispute resolution. Always efficient and readily available when we need him, he offers comprehensive explanations on the next steps in complex litigation.’

Key clients

Alphabet

Allianz

GlaxoSmithKline

Prudential Corporation Asia

Shell Pilipinas Corporation

Universal Entertainment Corporation

Work highlights

  • Assisted a Japanese conglomerate in securing a letter of non-coverage from the PCC to confirm that its proposed additional capital investment in its existing JV is not subject to mandatory notification.
  • Advised a multinational super app on the antitrust aspect of its potential acquisition of the business of its competitor in the Philippines.
  • Assisted a European healthcare company in a deep-dive analysis of its competition law compliance to determine any risk areas in conducting its operations.

Philippines > Capital markets Tier 1

The practice at Quisumbing Torres has experience assisting its diverse roster of clients with domestic and international matters, including equity and debt transactions, public M&A and corporate governance matters, securities-related issues and business restructurings and reorganisations. The group is particularly adept at advising financial institutions, which is Dennis Quintero's are of focus. Lesley Mondez specialises in handling life sciences and healthcare-related mandates. Alain Charles Veloso has experience advising on the regulatory, due diligence and transactional aspects of complex financial matters, and oversees the team alongside Maria Christina Macasaet-Acaban.

Practice head(s):

Alain Charles Veloso; Maria Christina Macasaet-Acaban

Other key lawyers:

Dennis Quintero; Ramon Miguel Bacani; Lesley Mondez

Key clients

Allianz

Universal Entertainment Corporation

Prudential Corporation Asia

Manulife Philippines

KPMG AZSA LLC

Work highlights

  • Assisted a leading online design and visual communication platform in connection with its application for securities registration exemption with the SEC in relation to its corporate reorganization and share swap.
  • Assisted an industrial manufacturing company in its capital restructuring application with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) to enable the company to re-list its shares with the SEC and PSE for trading.

Philippines > Corporate and M&A Tier 1

Quisumbing Torres’ group ‘always goes the extra mile’ when assisting its roster of clients, which features listed companies and multinational corporations. The team handles work ranging from the structuring of foreign investments and the creation of preparatory and ancillary agreements, to advising on sale and purchase agreements. Further, it advises on transactions including corporate reorganisations, joint ventures and M&A. Team head Maria Christina Macasaet-Acaban has expertise in handling matters in the healthcare and life sciences industry sectors in particular. Dennis Quintero harnesses experience in projects, EMI and corporate and M&A matters, while Julius Cervantes is noteworthy for his handling of corporate maintenance services-related cases. Diane Maxima Singayan-Mallillin left the firm.

Practice head(s):

Maria Christina Macasaet-Acaban

Other key lawyers:

Luisa Fernandez-Guina; Lesley Mondez; Charles Veloso; Julius Cervantes; Dennis Quintero; Lara Camille Lee

Testimonials

‘The team is accessible, easy to work with and they provide reliable and timely feedback. I appreciate the market updates as well which are based on industry developments.’

‘They have good rapport with clients, always go the extra mile. The lawyers are professional, responsive and relevant. Maria Christina Macasaet-Acaban, Luisa Fernandez-Guina, Lesley Mondez and Charles Veloso are all stand-out.’

‘The individuals personally attend to critical issues from until they are resolved.’

‘The team is focused on issues and get things done on schedule.’

Key clients

Alphabet (Google Inc.)

Allianz

Changi Airport International Pte. Ltd.

GlaxoSmithKline

Prudential Corporation Asia (Prudential Asia)

Shell Pilipinas Corporation

Space Exploration Technologies Corporation

Universal Entertainment Corporation

Work highlights

  • Assisted a multinational computer drive manufacturer and data storage company in the Philippine aspect of the global reorganization.
  • Advised a global multinational specialty chemical company in its asset transfer pursuant to a global acquisition of a major conglomerate that produces construction products.
  • Acted as counsel for buyer, a leading global financial services firm in connection with its acquisition of a technology company located in the USA.

Philippines > Dispute resolution Tier 1

The practice at Quisumbing Torres is well equipped to handle the range of high-value and high-stakes disputes, often in cross-jurisdictional contexts. It is helmed by Eliseo Zuñiga, Jr., who is noted for her ‘years of experience dealing with diverse issues and clients’ alongside Donemark Calimon. Key practitioner Ramon Quisumbing has a focus on ADR and international arbitration cases. Healthcare, construction and compliance disputes, as well as criminal litigation are all areas of experience of Michael Macapagal. Dranyl Jared Amoroso has a focus on criminal litigation and arbitration. Marvin Masangkay is equipped to handle ADR matters and has particular expertise in aviation, being a member of the firm’s industrial, manufacturing and transport group.

Practice head(s):

Eliseo Zuñiga, Jr.

Other key lawyers:

Ramon Quisumbing; Donemark Calimon; Michael Macapagal; Miguel Galvez; Marvin Masangkay; Dranyl Jared Amoroso; Camille Bianca Gatmaitan-Santos

Testimonials

‘The team is very responsive and open to ideas from clients. They make us feel that they care about our business because they take the time to understand what our needs are and what we require as an organisation.’

‘Donemark Calimon and Eliseo Zuñiga, Jr. are very collaborative and available to assist. They provide high-value advice and strategy that comes from years of experience dealing with diverse issues and clients.’

‘The team was very thorough in approaching our dispute resolution case. It was very important from the onset to establish trust between parties, and facts to substantiate the merit of the case.’

‘They brought in a team with broad expertise to make sure that proper engagement with us, and coverage of the case, are done in a seamless and efficient manner.’

‘Transparent in sharing areas where an external counsel may be needed. This also manifested their industry network. The firm’s capability and expertise are way beyond the existing scope of engagement.’

‘A very professional and pleasant group of people. Strict professional decorum is a major plus.’

Key clients

Alphabet (Google Inc.)

China Harbour Engineering Company

Manulife Philippines

Shell Pilipinas Corporation

Work highlights

  • Assisted a Belgian family-owned group of companies engaged in construction and maritime infrastructure in its dispute with a subsidiary of one of the largest conglomerates in the Philippines.
  • Assisted a multinational financial services company in a dispute and eventual settlement with a contractor regarding the interpretation of payment provisions in the Contract Agreement.
  • Advised the Philippine affiliate of a multinational insurance company in Philippine law matters related to ongoing arbitration proceedings in Singapore relating to adjustments for the consideration of shares in a Share Purchase Agreement.

Philippines > Intellectual property Tier 1

The collective at Quisumbing Torres is well-placed to assist its noteworthy roster of clients which includes both domestic and multinational names in the protection of their IP, including in disputes contexts. New tech protection is a particular area of expertise for the team. Brand management and enforcement, patent protection and prosecution, and trade secrets protection matters all feature in the team’s workload. Divina Ilas-Panganiban oversees the department and has specialisms spanning IP, data and tech with expertise in TMT in particular; Panganiban is also a member of the Advisory Council for IP in the Philippines. Bienvenido Marquez III is a notable individual in the team, leading on many of its most prominent IP enforcement cases. Reena Mitra-Ventanilla is also standout.

Practice head(s):

Divina Ilas-Panganiban

Other key lawyers:

Bienvenido Marquez III; Reena Mitra-Ventanilla; Frederick August Jose; Felicisimo Agas III

Testimonials

‘We have been working with Quisumbing Torres for more than 10 years. The legal work they do is both simple and complex, but all high value. What makes Quisumbing Torres’ team stand out is the consistent rendering of clear and concise legal advice, and its consistent trademark administrative support.’

‘Divina Ilas-Panganiban provides simple solutions to seemingly complex legal issues, especially on trademark licensing and enforcement matters. What I appreciate about Divina is her initiative in providing us with options on our trademark strategy to ensure that the same is consistent with our business objectives.’

‘On the administrative side, Divina ensures that all our needs are well taken care of and are addressed at the earliest time possible. We are fortunate that she is handling our portfolio.’

Key clients

GlaxoSmithKline

Alphabet

Google

Shell

Universal Entertainment Corporation

L’Oreal

Mang Inasal Philippines, Inc

Work highlights

  • Represented a multinational healthcare and beauty chain store in successfully prosecuting before the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center a complaint against the US-based registered owner of the domain name that is confusingly similar to the client’s registered trademarks.
  • Managed the trademark portfolio of an American animation studio and some of its affiliates in the Philippines.
  • Acted on behalf of luxury goods companies against sellers and distributors of counterfeit branded watches, jewellery, footwear, clothing, bags, ceramics, and other luxury products, having seized approximately $1m worth of infringing from six target locations.

Philippines > Labour and employment (including immigration) Tier 1

The group at Quisumbing Torres assists its extensive roster of corporate clients, and maintains its strong reputation for advising on alternative company structures and the impacts of such change on employees, the termination of employment contracts, and employment disputes, which are Eliseo Zuñiga, Jr.'s areas of specialism. The practice’s immigration work is overseen by Miguel Antonio Galvez and includes obtaining OECs from the Department of Migrant Workers. Patrick Henry Salazar and Gil Roberto Zerrudo are considered ‘trusted advisors’ by clients. Employment and compensation specialist Kenneth Chua leads the practice.

Practice head(s):

Kenneth Chua

Testimonials

‘The team is very responsive and open to ideas from clients. Unlike other law firms I’ve worked with, QT makes us feel that they care about our business because they take the time to understand what our needs are and what we require as an organisation.’

‘Eliseo Zuñiga, Jr. is very collaborative and available at all hours to respond to our requests for assistance. He provides high-value advice and strategy that comes from years of experience dealing with diverse issues and clients.’

‘In my view the team is collaborative and can be relied upon to be thorough in their advice.’

‘I partner with Patrick Henry Salazar and Gil Roberto Zerrudo. They are my trusted advisors who provide good guidance.’

Key clients

Alphabet

Google Inc.

GlaxoSmithKline

Chevron

SBA Communications Corporation

Work highlights

  • Advised an e-commerce company on a weekly basis on its various employment-related issues and processes, such as employment termination, policy changes, pay queries, recruitment, leave benefits, other corrective action, major reorganizations and mass layoffs.
  • Advised a US-based BPO company in carefully separating a high-ranking officer due to organizational changes among other reasons.
  • Advised a global professional services firm on a regular basis on its various employment-related issues and processes, such as employment termination, policy changes, pay queries, recruitment, leave benefits, and other corrective actions.

Philippines > Projects and energy Tier 1

The team at Quisumbing Torres has notable experience representing its broad roster of clients on the full range of energy, mining and infrastructure projects. Advising on the financing aspects of projects forms a significant portion of the team’s workload. Further, it is well-equipped to assist with PPP schemes, PPA agreements and government procurement contracts, amongst other areas. Its clients span sectors from renewable energy and power, to mining, oil and gas, and petrochemicals. Dennis Quintero is at the helm of the practice and has experience in mining, minerals and energy work. Ina Alexandra Dominguez heads the energy sub-team and has related transactional experience, including purchasing and M&A.

Practice head(s):

Dennis Quintero

Other key lawyers:

Key clients

APG Asset Management

Changi Airport International Pte. Ltd.

Graymont Limited

Shell Pilipinas Corporation

Repsol SA

Sankyu Southeast Asia Holdings Pte. Ltd.

SBA Communications Corporation

Work highlights

  • Advised a leading global mining group in connection with the due diligence investigation into a Philippine mining company and its affiliates, and the Philippine Tampakan Copper-Gold Project.
  • Advised a Japan-based power company on its joint venture with a power generation company relating to its hydropower portfolio in the Philippines.
  • Assisting a global power and renewable energy and development platform regarding the acquisition of Philippines Rooftop Solar Projects in the Philippines.

Philippines > Real estate and construction Tier 1

The team at Quisumbing Torres has experience advising on the full gamut of complex real estate transactions. Its workload includes advising on transactional, regulatory and due diligence aspects of acquisitions of land, relocation projects, and constructions of large-scale facilities. The client portfolio the team assists features well-known names from an array of industry sectors. Julius Cervantes has expertise in regulatory and contractual aspects of real estate and construction matters. Donemark Calimon is adept at handling the construction elements of industrial, manufacturing and transportation work. Ramon Miguel Bacani is also a noteworthy name with a specialism in renewable energy, as is Michael Macapagal.

Practice head(s):

Julius Cervantes

Key clients

Alphabet

Shell

China Harbour Engineering

Changi Airport International Pte. Ltd.

SBA Communications Corporation

Tecnimont SpA

Repsol SA

Work highlights

  • Assisted a religious organization in the due diligence and acquisition of land which will be used by the client for religious purposes.
  • Assisted a multinational tech company on the construction of a state of the art facility within an ecozone under the jurisdiction of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority.
  • Assisted a multinational pharmaceutical company with the real estate and regulatory aspects of the client’s office relocation project.

Philippines > Tax Tier 1

Quisumbing Torres‘ cohort is well-placed to assist its client portfolio on complex taxation matters in both domestic and international contexts. The team has a broad range of capabilities, including assisting with tax planning and transactions; tax policy; indirect taxation matters; and international and commercial trade matters. In addition, it is well-placed to advise on general wealth management, as well as on high-value disputes. Kristine Anne Mercado-Tamayo heads up the practice and specialises in industrials, manufacturing, and transportation-related cases. Maria Ana Camila Jacinto-Lagustan‘s ‘energetic approach never fails to amaze’, and she is experienced handling tariff rates-related issues amongst others. Ronald Bernas departed in July 2023.

Practice head(s):

Kristine Anne Mercado-Tamayo

Other key lawyers:

Maria Ana Camila Jacinto-Lagustan; Roberto Romalio Reyes

Testimonials

‘The team’s strength is their deep understanding and experience in various areas of tax such as tax controversy, international tax and practical tax application. This gives comfort to me as a client that I am getting well-rounded, solid tax advice.’

‘I can rely on the team for support during matters that require direct engagement with the Bureau of Inland Revenue.’

‘The notable tax partner I have the privilege of working with is Maria Ana Camila Jacinto-Lagustan. Her energetic approach to all the tax matters in the Philippines never ceases to amaze me. She was available and always stood ready to take instructions.’

‘Very competent, very careful, well-connected with the BIR and very well-versed in dealing with compliance matters.’

‘The team at QT headed by Kristine Anne Mercado-Tamayo is the best I’ve worked with the Philippines.’

Key clients

Alphabet (Google Inc.)

Universal Entertainment Corporation

Work highlights

  • Represented an informal coalition of leading global companies before the technical working group of the Philippine Senate’s Ways and Means committee in formulating the law that will impose VAT on digital transactions of non-resident digital service providers.
  • Representing the Philippine subsidiary of the world’s largest supplier and manufacturer of sportswear and equipment in three ongoing judicial protests with the CTA against deficiency tax assessments issued by the BIR for three different taxable years.
  • Represented a global leader in manufacturing semiconductors before the Strategic Trade Management Office in respect of minimising potential consequences for the exportation of semifinished goods with military end-use without prior export authorization.

Philippines > TMT Tier 1

Well-regarded for its expertise in data privacy and compliance, Quisumbing Torres is particularly experienced in advising on cases involving cybersecurity issues, often involving multi-jurisdictional elements. The client roster includes health tech and fintech entities. Gil Roberto Zerrudo is well versed in advising on telecoms and IT matters for clients in the pharmaceutical, healthcare and manufacturing sectors, while Divina Pastora Ilas-Panganiban has significant expertise in IP-related work; the duo co-lead the department. Bienvenido Marquez III is a key name to note.

Practice head(s):

Gil Roberto Zerrudo; Divina Pastora Ilas-Panganiban

Testimonials

‘Quisumbing Torres stands out in the legal landscape due to its deep-rooted connections within the industry, and its provision of a nuanced understanding of market practices and regulatory expectations. This intimate knowledge allows the firm to offer clients insights that are both practical and forward-looking, anticipating how laws will likely be interpreted and applied by regulators.’

‘The firm’s advice is not only legally sound but also commercially viable.’

‘The individuals at Quisumbing Torres distinguish themselves through their expertise, dedication, and unique personal qualities. What sets them apart from competitors is their ability to combine deep legal knowledge with a genuine commitment to client service.’

‘Among the standout professionals is Divina Pastora Ilas-Panganiban. Her exceptional listening skills, flexibility, and unwavering dedication to her clients make her a valuable partner. Her collaborative spirit and willingness to engage in constructive dialogue ensure that our needs are always met with the utmost professionalism and care.’

‘The qualities I value most in the team at Quisumbing Torres include their responsiveness, practical approach to problem-solving, and the ability to anticipate and adapt to changing client needs. These attributes, coupled with their industry connections and innovative mindset, make working with Quisumbing Torres a consistently rewarding experience.’

Key clients

Alphabet (Google Inc.)

PruLife Insurance Corporation of U.K.

Prudential Corporation Asia

SBA Communications Corporation

Space Exploration Technologies Corp.

Work highlights

  • Acted for an international creative tool and software company in a data confidentiality breach matter.
  • Assisted an American multinational mass media and entertainment conglomerate with obtaining a Public Performance License and synchronization license from the Filipino Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, Inc. (FILSCAP) for online streaming sites.

Philippines > Banking and finance Tier 2

Quisumbing Torres' lucrative client list includes multinational banks, financial sponsors and corporate entities. The team's workload consists of acquisition, project and real estate finance, and financial regulatory mandates, particularly in the fintech space. Alain Charles Veloso is experienced in assisting with the full range of complex transactions, and oversees the group alongside Maria Christina Macasaet-Acaban. Fintech advisory work is the specialism of Dennis Quintero, while Ramon Miguel Bacani has expertise in the real estate and construction sectors.

Practice head(s):

Alain Charles Veloso; Maria Christina Macasaet-Acaban

Other key lawyers:

Key clients

Allianz

Universal Entertainment Corporation

Prudential Corporation Asia

Manulife Philippines

KPMG AZSA LLC

Work highlights

  • Advised a British universal bank and financial services group in connection to an amendment of the Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility to a Singapore-based financing company as the borrower.
  • Advised a regional development bank in the development and implementation of a city-level parametric disaster insurance scheme.
  • Advised a Hong Kong-based multinational insurance and finance corporation in its joint venture with a wholly owned subsidiary of one of the oldest conglomerates in the Philippines.

Philippines > Transport Tier 3

For 60 years, top Philippine and multinational companies have put their trust in Quisumbing Torres’ global expertise housing a seasoned legal team of more than 60 lawyers focused across different practice areas, industry sectors, and client solutions as a member firm of Baker & McKenzie International. Quisumbing Torres delivers holistic solutions to interconnected challenges. We work collaboratively with our clients, providing the appropriate perspective to inform decision-making while managing risk and gaining access to untapped business opportunities.

Our client base includes many leading local conglomerates, top multinational and domestic companies seeking to realize growth in the Philippines and beyond. Consistently recognized as a leading firm, we have developed a track record advising on some of the most significant and award-winning transactions in the country. We have successfully assisted Shell in its joint venture with Emerging Power Inc. to develop, own, operate, and maintain onshore renewable energy projects in the Philippines, which was recognized as 2023 M&A Deal of the Year by the Asian Legal Business Philippine Law Awards. We successfully advised Eramen Minerals in the development of a downstream nickel processing facility for the production of nickel components for batteries for use in electric vehicles, as well as advising SpaceX in the accreditation of its Starlink Philippine entity. Our partners play an active role in shaping policy. They have been involved in hearings and deliberations within the Philippine Congress and Executive Departments on critical issues related to energy transition, digital transformation and sustainability.

We continue to provide valuable local insight and foresight on corporate and commercial transactions to leading domestic companies and foreign multinationals on various matters in relation to doing business in the Philippines.

As international interest continues to set its sights in the Philippines, Quisumbing Torres’ global capability and network with deep local market knowledge make us the clear first choice for clients in the country and beyond.

Department Name Email Telephone
Real Estate Group Julius Cervantes Julius.Cervantes@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194904
Consumer Goods & Retail Industry Group Luisa Fernandez-Guina Luisa.Fernandez-Guina@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194977
Immigration Practice Group Miguel Galvez Miguel.Galvez@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194950
Technology, Media & Telecommunications Industry Group Divina Ilas-Panganiban Divina.Ilas-Panganiban@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194961
Consumer Goods & Retail Industry Group Bienvenido Marquez III Bienvenido.Marquez@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194936
Intellectual Property Practice Group Bienvenido Marquez III Bienvenido.Marquez@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194936
Banking & Finance Practice Group TJ Mendoza TJ.Mendoza@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194963
Financial Institutions Industry Group TJ Mendoza TJ.Mendoza@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194963
Energy, Mining & Infrastructure Industry Group Dennis Quintero Dennis.Quintero@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194962
Insurance Group Dennis Quintero Dennis.Quintero@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194962
Capital Markets Group Alain Charles Veloso Charles.Veloso@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194954
Dispute Resolution Practice Group Donemark Calimon Donemark.Calimon@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194920
Industrials, Manufacturing & Transportation Industry Group Donemark Calimon Donemark.Calimon@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194920
Employment Practice Group Kenneth Chua Kenneth.Chua@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194940
Services (inluding Outsourcing) Industry Group Kenneth Chua Kenneth.Chua@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194940
Tax Practice Group Dennis Dimagiba Dennis.Dimagiba@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194912
Corporate & Commercial Practice Group Christina Macasaet-Acaban Christina.Macasaet-Acaban@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194947
Competition Focus Group Christina Macasaet-Acaban Christina.Macasaet-Acaban@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194947
Healthcare Industry Group Christina Macasaet-Acaban Christina.Macasaet-Acaban@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194947
Managing Partner Ramon Quisumbing Ramon.Quisumbing@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194911
Technology Media & Telecommunications Industry Group Gil Roberto Zerrudo Gil.Zerrudo@quisumbingtorres.com +63288194916
English
Filipino

CLIENT:

COMPANY/FIRM:

TESTIMONIAL: The “very responsive and competent team” at Quisumbing Torres is praised for its strong internal and external network which is arguably second-to-none in the industry.”


CLIENT:

COMPANY/FIRM:

TESTIMONIAL: “Quisumbing Torres.. is praised for its prompt and thorough response times and good level of knowledge.”


 

When It Comes to People

We are committed to diversity and inclusion in our people, support and development of their talent, and dignity and safety in our workplaces. As a member firm of Baker & McKenzie International, a signatory to the UN Global Compact, we are committed to align our policies and operations with ten principles in the areas of human rights, fair labor, the environment and anti-corruption.

Diversity and Inclusion

We strive to nurture a respectful, inclusive environment that encourages diverse individuals to thrive personally and professionally as full contributors to the success of the firm and the clients we serve. We do not permit or tolerate discrimination in our workplaces. This means:

  • All personnel decisions must be: a) respectful of differences among employees and potential employees, b) based on factors relevant to their ability to perform the work they are, or would be expected to do, and c) in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.
  • This includes decisions related to the recruiting, hiring, assignment, compensation, training and development, promotion and dismissal of personnel, as well as other terms and conditions of employment.
  • Applicable local laws, which we follow, vary, but differences that we strive to overlook in personnel decisions include race, color, creed, religion, citizenship, national origin, ethnicity and/or cultural background, age, sex, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy and disability.

While our approach to diversity and inclusion is multi-faceted, three areas where we have specific policies are:

Ethnic & Cultural Diversity

Ethnicity means different things in different countries, so a single approach to ethnic and cultural diversity is ill-advised. This is why we build practices from the ground up, taking local cultural sensitivities into consideration wherever we practice law. Despite the challenges, we have a strong desire to address a lack of equity around the world and encourage each of our offices to define race/ethnic diversity in a way that suits their local culture, politics, clients and business environment.

Gender Diversity

We believe women must be leaders at all levels of our Firm. We seek to foster women leaders in our senior global roles but we are also focusing on ensuring that women are leaders of our most significant client relationships. Since 2012, we have adopted a gender policy designed to encourage the recruitment and retention of more women, and provide greater opportunities and support for women to assume leadership roles. At the partner level, we have set gender diversity aspirational targets – we are working to ensure that women comprise at least 40% of local/national partners and at least 30% of principals and those in leadership positions.

LGBT Diversity

Everyone should feel comfortable in the workplace, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity and expression. We are committed to creating and maintaining an open and supportive working environment. This includes equal opportunity for advancement and development within the firm regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and the equal provision of benefits to same and opposite sex partners or spouses.

We have made great strides in encouraging equality in our Firm and in engaging in these crucial conversations on a global basis. Our seven basic principles include:

Principle 1. Establish high-level corporate leadership for gender equality;
Principle 2. Treat all women and men fairly at work – respect and support human rights and non-discrimination;
Principle 3. Ensure the health, safety and well-being of all women and men workers;
Principle 4. Promote education, training and professional development for women;
Principle 5. Implement enterprise development, supply chain and marketing practices that empower women;
Principle 6. Promote equality through community initiatives and advocacy; and
Principle 7. Measure and publicly report on progress to achieve gender equality.