Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity, inclusion and equal opportunities are key elements of our identity as an employer. CMS signed the Diversity Charter in 2012. By signing the Charter, the firm is committed to a respectful and non-discriminatory working environment, as well as to conditions that ensure equal opportunities.
With the Diversity & Inclusion Charter adopted in 2021, CMS has set out common principles and objectives for addressing diversity and inclusion. At CMS, people of different nationalities, genders, ethnic and religious backgrounds, and sexual orientations, as well as those with different experiences and life journeys, work together. These principles are enshrined in the Diversity & Inclusion Charter and apply to all CMS offices worldwide.
Our initiatives and networks
Women@CMS – network for female lawyers
Women@CMS is the network for female lawyers at CMS. It brings together female colleagues across offices, practice groups and career stages to share experiences, learn from one another and support one another. A variety of networking and discussion formats create opportunities for professional development, personal growth and networking.
Pride@CMS – LGBTQIA* network
Pride@CMS is the LGBTQIA network at CMS – a space for visibility, exchange and a sense of belonging. This is where queer colleagues and allies come together to share experiences, contribute their perspectives and network with one another. The focus is on initiatives centred around Pride Month, as well as ongoing dialogue within the network.
E-learning for diversity & inclusion
Our compulsory e-learning course on diversity and inclusion raises awareness of diversity, equal opportunities and respectful collaboration. Using practical examples, the course teaches the fundamentals of interacting with one another in a mindful and non-discriminatory manner in day-to-day working life.
D&I Roundtable
Launched in 2021, the D&I Roundtable is a forum for colleagues from all offices and professional groups to exchange ideas. It provides a space to share experiences and perspectives, discuss current issues and generate ideas to promote diversity, inclusion and equal opportunities at CMS.
Leadership Development
Diversity, equal opportunities, feedback and psychological safety are integral parts of selected leadership and development programmes at CMS. As part of this, leaders explore their role in fostering a respectful working environment. Particularly in times of change and transformation, we place great importance on open dialogue, trust and a leadership culture that takes different perspectives into account.
Our cooperation partnerships
| Initiative Women into Leadership (IWiL) is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the sustainable development of female leaders. As part of the cross-mentoring programme, women in leadership roles are given the opportunity to engage with experienced leaders from a range of organisations. The programme promotes the cross-organisational exchange of experiences and perspectives. |
| ALICE is an LGBTQIA* is an LGBTQIA* career and allyship network for legal professionals. It connects law firms, students, trainee solicitors, legal professionals and LGBTQIA* activists, united by a shared desire to champion an inclusive and diversity-affirming corporate culture and society. CMS has been supporting ALICE as an official supporter and Silver Sponsor since 2020. |
| FidAR ("Frauen in die Aufsichtsräte") was founded at the end of 2006 by women in leadership positions in business, academia, and politics with the aim of significantly and sustainably increasing the proportion of women on German supervisory boards. |
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact [email protected].
More about our responsible business
Local market knowledge. Global outlook
We provide future-facing legal advice to help your organisation thrive. Combining local market knowledge and a global perspective, and with lawyers in locations worldwide, your organisation benefits from the expertise it needs, even across borders.
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