The key to retaining and recruiting attorney talent may be found in diversity, equity, and inclusion programming, displaying to lawyers that their individualities are genuinely valued. Jeny Maier, who was recently named as the managing partner of Axinn Veltrop & Harkrider, the biggest antitrust boutique firm in the country, discusses this philosophy in a recent interview with Above the Law.
Maier is the first female managing partner at Axinn, marking an important shift in a male-dominated area of law. She takes pride in the assertive group of women leaders within Axinn’s antitrust practice, including Rachel Adcox, Lisl Dunlop, Leslie Overton, Denise Plunkett, and Tiffany Rider. The professional collaboration and friendship among this group facilitate robust business development opportunities.
The firm is actively working towards Mansfield certification, an initiative designed to boost diversity in law firm leadership. Maier is an advocate of this certification, as it symbolizes the firm’s commitment to emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion. This process motivates the firm to consider a broader pool of candidates for leadership roles, thereby not overlooking talent.
Diversifying the firm encompasses everything from summer associate programs to billing practices. Axinn has implemented a variety of specific measures, such as offering billable credit for participation in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and launching several employee resource groups. Amidst these efforts, it is crucial to invest in associates, as they represent the firm’s future.
Approximately 43% of Axinn’s associates come from underrepresented racial or ethnic groups, or identify as LGBTQ+. Including women, this percentage exceeds 65%. About 16% of partners hail from underrepresented ethnic or racial groups. Though these are significant strides, Maier affirms supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion is an ongoing process.
Maier sees further development of the firm’s brand as vital to making Axinn a “destination” for talent. By encouraging associates to engage in business development, attending conferences, and expanding their professional networks from their early years, they are becoming thought leaders in their fields. This investment strategy, combined with strategic hires of seasoned lawyers to meet client needs, distinguishes Axinn from firms that rely mainly on lateral hires.
With such a clear focus on diversity, equity, and inclusivity, Axinn Veltrop & Harkrider is indeed working at a high level towards being a ‘destination’ for attorney talent. The full enlightening conversation can be read here.