Justin D'Agostino named one of the world's leading 'OUTstanding Executives' in the FT's 2016 global list of LGBT and ally ambassadors

Justin D'Agostino, Herbert Smith Freehills' Global Head of Disputes and joint Managing Partner for Asia and Australia, has been listed for the fourth consecutive year in the annual OUTstanding global rankings, which recognises the top 100 executives who have made a difference in gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender (LGBT) workplaces. 

Justin has been listed at number 27 this year, and has been recognised in the rankings for his work in championing LGBT rights and inclusive workplaces.

Founder of the first Herbert Smith Freehills LGBT network in the London office in 2007, Justin has since helped to shape the firm's LGBT programmes, established its Asia LGBT network for Asia, and supported the launch of the network in the firm's Australian offices.

He is also co-sponsor of the firm's Global LGBT Network and works as a mentor with the Queer Straight Alliance in Hong Kong. He is a Stonewall Ambassador and supports improving gender imbalance on corporate boards through his membership of the Hong Kong 30% Club. Justin was also named Executive Sponsor of the Year in the Diversity and Inclusion in Asia Network (DIAN) 2016 benchmark.

Justin, who is a leading international arbitration lawyer, said:  "I'm very honoured to have received this recognition. I am pleased that the very personal role I have played around D&I issues in the legal profession and wider business community has gone some way to ensuring that we have an inclusive workplace."

This is the fourth year that OUTstanding and the Financial Times have joined forces to publish The Leading LBGT+ & Ally Executives and LGBT+ Future Leaders Lists. OUTstanding is a professional membership organisation for global businesses. It works directly with LGBT+ and ally leaders to promote inclusion in the workplace, drive change, challenge stereotypes and inspire future generations. You can view the full list in the Financial Times here, or visit: www.out-standing.org/.

CEO and founder of OUTstanding, Suki Sandhu, said: “Large corporations have the power and influence to promote LGBT+ inclusion and pave the way for real societal change around the world. By recognising the impact of those who are leading the charge, the OUTstanding Leading LGBT+ & Ally Executives and LGBT+ Future Leaders Lists continue to inspire both businesses and individuals to drive LGBT+ equality forward.

"OUTstanding exists to challenge the assumption that you cannot be out and successful in business, to create role models that will inspire the next generation of business leaders and to encourage companies to use their far-reaching voices for good.”