Herbert Smith Freehills duo named as OUTstanding LGBT+ role models

Lawyers in Herbert Smith Freehills’ London and Melbourne offices have been recognised for their leadership and commitment to the LGBT+ community.

In the latest annual OUTstanding rankings presented by Involve People and Yahoo Finance, London-based Nigel Farr, a partner in the firm’s corporate practice, has been recognised as an Ally Role Model in the OUTstanding 100 LGBT+ Executives List.

His inclusion in the List acknowledges the significant impact driving change, tackling prejudice and inspiring support he has made for the LGBT+ community across organisations and the workplace. It recognises, in particular, his role since inception as Ally Sponsor of IRIS, Herbert Smith Freehills’ LGBT+ network together with his promotion of the firm’s support and participation in a wide range of LGBT+ initiatives.

Melbourne based Stephen Somerville, a senior associate in the Pro Bono & Citizenship team in Australia, has been identified in the OUTstanding 100 LGBT+ Future Leaders’ List.

His inclusion on the latest list recognises the difference he has made supporting LGBT+ individuals in Australia through the provision of pro bono legal support and advocacy for LGBT+ charities. It acknowledges his role as co-chair of the IRIS Network, support of the Pinnacle Foundation to facilitate education scholarships and mentoring for LGBT+ youth and his work on the Board of St Kilda Legal Service, a community legal centre which operates a specialised LGBT+ Legal Service.

“LGBT+ equality is a core element of our strategy on diversity and inclusion so it is hugely rewarding to see two of our colleagues recognised for their efforts and determination to drive the charge for positive change. I’m particularly delighted that both Nigel and Stephen have been identified on such a prestigious list as it demonstrates the work we do to build inclusivity in every corner of our global network,” says Alison Brown, executive partner at Herbert Smith Freehills.

This is the eighth year that OUTstanding has published The Leading LBGT+ & Ally Executives and LGBT+ Future Leaders Lists, and the second year it has partnered with Yahoo Finance.

Founder & CEO of INvolve, Suki Sandhu OBE, says: “I’m thrilled to be celebrating another amazing group of LGBT+ and Ally Role Models from across the globe who are championing inclusion and inspiring the next generation of talent. LGBT+ discrimination is still prevalent across the world and Role Models are essential to change perceptions and show everyone that you can be successful in business while also being your authentic self at work.”