After months of in-depth research and submission reviews, the Legal Benchmarking Group is thrilled to introduce the esteemed judges for the inaugural Social Impact EMEA awards, designed to celebrate and recognise law firms from across Europe, Middle East, and Africa that are at the forefront of championing diversity and inclusion within the industry.
Following on the heels of the Americas judging panel, a distinguished panel of judges has been established for the EMEA awards, with each bringing a wealth of experience and a unique perspective on social impact initiatives that drive diversity and inclusion in the legal sector. These professionals are renowned for their contributions to the legal field and their unwavering commitment to inclusion.
Meet the judges:
Rosemary Martin
Chair of Council, University of Sussex
Rosemary Martin became chair of the University of Sussex Council in May 2023, after serving for five years on the council, including a year as vice-chair. Martin retired from her role as group general counsel and company secretary at telecommunications company Vodafone Group, where she was responsible for the legal, compliance and secretariat functions and managing legal risk. Prior to that, Martin served as general counsel for Reuters for more than a decade and earlier spent 14 years at legacy firm Rowe & Maw, where she began her legal career in 1981 and later made partner. She has also undertaken a series of non-executive roles including as an independent non-executive of EY, and as a trustee of Lloyd’s Register Foundation, which supports engineering-related research, training and education. Her previous non-executive roles included directorships at HSBC and the Legal Services Board and advisory board positions in the health and financial services sectors. In addition to an abiding interest in the challenges of managing legal risk across diverse jurisdictions, Martin is engaged in promoting innovation and diversity in the legal profession. Martin graduated from the University of Sussex with a degree in philosophy with literature and has an MBA in legal practice.
Nina Best
General counsel, Delinian
Nina Best is general counsel at Delinian, a global B2B information-services business and the parent company of Legal Benchmarking Group. Best orchestrates an array of M&A transactions and manages a dynamic legal, risk, and company secretariat team ensuring strong governance and strategic support of Delinian's diverse portfolio.
Beyond this lies a fervent advocate for those on the peripheries. Best is a champion for the underrepresented. As a vocal and actionable ally, Best attempts to leverage her position to amplify the voices and opportunities for individuals hailing from marginalised backgrounds — including but not limited to LGBTQA+ communities, black and mixed-race individuals, and those from lower socio-economic statuses.
Ama Ocansey
UK head of diversity & inclusion at BNP Paribas
Ama Ocansey is UK head of diversity & Inclusion at BNP Paribas, and is responsible for the development and execution of the bank’s diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging strategy. Ocansey is also a qualified solicitor of England & Wales and began her career at Linklaters, where she practised in the London and Tokyo offices. Ama joined BNP Paribas, building its emerging markets platform and rose to became senior counsel. Ama also is also a non-executive director for a financial subsidiary. Ama is a multi-award winning D&I professional and was named “Head of Diversity of the Year” at the European Diversity Awards, “Diversity Lead of the Year” at the Women in Finance Awards and was recently announced one of the Most Influential DEI Leaders in the HIVE Learning Top 75 Most Influential Leaders in EMEA. Outside of work, Ama is keynote speaker and also mentors junior City lawyers and upcoming executives.
Selection process
Our judges have evaluated nominations based on several criteria, including the implementation of innovative inclusion programmes, the impact of these programmes on the firm's culture and client relations, and the measurable outcomes achieved.
Why these awards matter
This awards programme is the culmination of months of meticulous research and rigorous submission reviews. The Legal Benchmarking Group has uncovered the most impactful programmes, policies, and initiatives from a diverse range of firms and individuals. These awards celebrate those who are paving the way and making an impact in the legal profession. By celebrating these achievements, the Legal Benchmarking Group hopes to inspire others in the industry to take meaningful steps towards fostering equity and inclusion.
The shortlisted firms and individuals have demonstrated remarkable commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion. This recognition serves as a testament to their hard work and dedication in creating a legal community where everyone can thrive. The Social Impact Awards team held its first gala ceremony in New York in June 2024 and will continue with a prestigious ceremony in London in September.
Stay tuned for more updates and join us on September 12 at The Waldorf Hotel in London to honor the trailblazers who are shaping the future of the legal industry.
For more information about the Social Impact Awards, please contact Shailyn Tirado, Americas Director of Research.
The Social Impact Awards are a wholly independent awards supported by IFLR but run separately from IFLR1000 research.
