Browne Jacobson LLP, the UK and Ireland law firm, has once again secured the number one position in The Social Mobility Foundation’s Employer Index 2025, marking the fourth time in five years it has achieved the top overall ranking. The firm also celebrates being named the highest-ranked law firm for social mobility for an unprecedented fifth consecutive year.

This recognition underscores Browne Jacobson’s steadfast leadership in advancing socioeconomic inclusion and its dedication to sharing expertise across the legal profession and beyond.

Commitment to Meaningful Change

Caroline Green, Senior Partner at Browne Jacobson, remarked:

“Being ranked the number one law firm for the fifth consecutive year, as well as the leading organisation overall, demonstrates our unwavering commitment to breaking down barriers and creating genuine opportunity.

Social mobility sits at the heart of our strategic vision to lead on society’s most pressing challenges. This is not merely about our own firm – we believe in the power of collective action. Through our Social Mobility Incubator, we are sharing our insights, tools, and practical experience with clients, peer firms, and organisations across all sectors, because lasting change happens when we work together to build a fairer, more inclusive profession and society.”

National Recognition for Data-Led Progress

Browne Jacobson’s top ranking reflects its data-driven approach to diversity and inclusion. The firm’s enhanced analysis of socioeconomic data – including geographic patterns within its workforce – has informed targeted strategies for improvement. In a pioneering move, the firm has also published its socioeconomic workforce data on its website, promoting transparency and accountability.

Through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership with the University of Nottingham, the firm gathered qualitative insights into social mobility experiences, leading to the creation of accent bias and socioeconomic awareness training. Key personnel involved in recruitment, promotion, and progression have been trained under this programme, which has received national media coverage and multiple award nominations.

Opening Doors for the Next Generation

Since its launch in 2019, Browne Jacobson’s FAIRE (Fairer Access into Real Experience) initiative has supported more than 80,000 aspiring professionals from diverse backgrounds. On 28 October 2025, the firm will host “The Big One”, a virtual experience day for students exploring legal careers. Over 11,000 participants have registered to hear from distinguished speakers including The Solicitor General, Rt Hon Ellie Reeves MP, Chair of the Bar Council, Barbara Mills KC, and President of the Law Society, Mark Evans, alongside Browne Jacobson’s own junior lawyers.

The firm’s in-person FAIRE work experience scheme further supports 100 young people annually – 85% of whom come from lower socioeconomic backgrounds – providing them with valuable exposure to the legal world.

Sharing Knowledge Across Sectors

Browne Jacobson continues to lead the conversation on inclusion through its Social Mobility Incubator Series, a first-of-its-kind initiative that helps clients, peer firms, and wider organisations refine their approaches to social mobility by sharing practical insights and proven strategies.

Looking ahead, the firm will launch a new Employability Hub in November 2025, offering practical skills sessions and information for those pursuing legal careers, as well as resources for teachers, parents, and career advisers. In February 2026, the firm will introduce a tailored mentoring and skills development programme for young people with care experience.

Comment from the Social Mobility Foundation

Sarah Atkinson, Chief Executive of the Social Mobility Foundation, commented:

“Congratulations to all employers in this year’s Index. They are trailblazers in creating workplaces where everyone can thrive, resulting in more representative, innovative, and successful organisations.

Talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. Too many young people are being held back from fulfilling their potential because of their background – that is unfair to them and damaging to our national prosperity. We need more employers to follow the example set by this year’s leaders and take meaningful action to improve social mobility.”

About Browne Jacobson LLP

Browne Jacobson LLP is a full-service law firm operating across the UK and Ireland. The firm is recognised for its innovative approach, inclusive culture, and commitment to making the legal profession accessible to all. Its client base spans both the private and public sectors, with particular expertise in health, education, insurance, retail, and government.