Kathleen McArthur
Litigation Partner and Diversity Leader
Sullivan & Cromwell LLP
Headquarters: New York, New York
Business: Legal Services
Website: www.sullcrom.com
LITIGATION PARTNER AND DIVERSITY LEADER KATHLEEN MCARTHUR Shares Her D&I Views
“Diversity and inclusion are core values at Sullivan & Cromwell. I see first-hand how extensively these values are woven into the very fabric of the firm and how they impact and enhance everything we do. The firm’s generalist model—which focuses on developing lawyers who can tackle any complex legal issue that comes their way— depends on a breadth of viewpoints and styles that only a truly diverse group of lawyers can contribute. We believe very deeply that diversity is essential to our ability to deliver the most innovative and creative solutions to the challenges our clients face.”
Affinity Group Impact
“Sullivan & Cromwell’s lawyer affinity networks, which includes AAN, the LGBT Network, NOBLL, and the WIC, are a crucial part of the firm’s efforts to recruit, retain, and support the development of women and diverse associates. These groups serve as liaisons to affinity groups on law school campuses and provide invaluable informal mentoring to associates after they join the firm.”
Our 2017 Success Story
“Launched last fall, our Women’s Leadership Lunch Series brings women lawyers together for presentations, panel discussions, and ideation concerning career success. The first lunch featured a panel of women partners discussing career trajectories, lessons learned, and how to make the most of opportunities. At the second lunch, partners of both genders led group discussions that included tips on client engagement, being proactive about career development, and leadership qualities. At the third lunch, our chief legal recruiting and professional development officer presented research on personality traits that help predict success for women lawyers.”
Next Steps—2018
“One objective for 2018 is to continue to enhance our recruitment of women and diverse law students. While continuing to sponsor programming, such as panel discussions, conferences, and workshops, we will also develop new initiatives that will benefit student development.
“A second objective is to continue to be a D&I thought leader. In collaboration with organizations such as the Institute for Inclusion in the Legal Profession, the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity, and McKinsey, we plan to publish articles, and develop and participate in innovative D&I programming.”
