The incoming CSR & diversity manager at Travers Smith calls for greater celebration of diverse role models
Chris Edwards will be Travers Smith LLP's first dedicated corporate social responsibility (CSR) and diversity manager. He joins the firm on 13 April from Stonewall.
What was your route into corporate social responsibility and diversity?
I’ve always been passionate about creating a fair and inclusive society where everybody can reach their full potential. My roles at The Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment and Stonewall enabled me to do this by advising clients on creating more inclusive environments. There’s a natural overlap between diversity and CSR and the very best organisations align both programmes to ensure that not only their own workplaces are truly inclusive, but that they’re also exerting their influence to help change wider societal attitudes.
What has been your biggest career challenge so far?
While at Stonewall, I was involved in setting up a professional networking group for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people working in the real estate sector. The sector isn’t renowned for its diversity credentials so getting employers to engage with the forum was initially challenging. However, thanks to the support of progressive organisations, the forum now has over 700 members all working together to help change the face of property.
Which diversity champion inspires you most?
This is difficult to answer as so many organisations have inspired me in different ways. I’ve been fortunate enough to meet incredible individuals who’ve been instrumental in improving workplace culture—from courtrooms to construction sites.
If you weren’t a CSR & diversity expert, what would you choose as an alternate career?
I’m an urban planner by trade, so my alternate path would involve designing more inclusive and sustainable cities. I previously worked in Rio de Janeiro on an urban design project involving integrating the favelas to the rest of the city. Perhaps in an alternate universe I’m currently sat with a cocktail on Copacabana beach!
What change would you make to the legal profession to increase diversity?
Although great strides have been made over the past 10 years in terms of diversity and inclusion, the profession as a whole could improve how it celebrates diverse role models. We know how important role models are to our sense of self. People entering the profession in particular feel much better when they have someone like them to look up to, and can imagine being successful when they see people like them succeeding. Although there are tremendous role models across the sector, I think we should be doing more to celebrate their achievements.
How do you relax?
Exploring hidden parks and public spaces in London, architecture, and a healthy dose of bad TV.
