Firms unite for diversity and inclusion initiative in Leeds

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Stronger Together is a network designed to “promote racial diversity, inclusion and equality” in Leeds’ professional services sector, while identifying ways to create a more diverse and inclusive sector in the city.

The Big Four, which consists of EY, KPMG, PwC and Deloitte, have joined law firms Addleshaw Goddard, DLA Piper UK LLP, Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP, Pinsent Masons LLP, Squire Patton Boggs (UK) LLP and Walker Morris LLP to launch the diversity and inclusion network in Leeds.

The Stronger Together network strives to “promote and encourage best practice across the sector and show that diverse and inclusive leadership is a true driver for change”, according to The Yorkshire Post.

The network was launched at a prestigious event at Leeds Civic Hall, hosted by Tom Riordan, chief executive of Leeds City Council.

Through a cross-firm mentor programme, the diversity initiative aims to bring together individuals “ to share collective experiences of equality and diversity challenges”.

On top of this, there will be an introduction of recruitment initiatives, with a focus at the school leaver level, to highlight the availability of diverse jobs within professional services. Plus, there are also plans to coordinate an events and speaker programme to further highlight the array of opportunities available.

Arif Ahmad, private business partner at PwC in Leeds and co-founder of the network, said: “This is the first time that the Big Four accounting firms and largest six law firms have collaborated locally on the challenges around racial diversity, inclusion and equality. I'm convinced that by working together on this topic, we will make a difference and I am optimistic as to what we can achieve by sharing our stories, expertise and networks.”