exclusively, namely matters concerning modern slavery, anti-bribery and corruption, ethical procurement, work and labour rights, and whistleblowing laws. The recruitment process consisted of three stages; a phone interview with Human Resources (HR), an assessment centre task; and an in-person interview with a Managing Associate and Senior Associate. While the phone interview took a typical interview format that consisted of standardised interview questions, the assessment centre task and in-person interview were designed to assess competencies relevant to the position. So far, my experience at Allens has been an overwhelmingly positive one. The firm places a significant emphasis on training, collegiality, mentorship, and feedback. Every recruit at Allens is allocated a buddy in a related practice area, which is hugely beneficial in aiding the transition into the workplace. There is no single pathway to a career in human rights practice or ESG risk and compliance. Personally, I have found that years of demonstrated interest in the practice area coupled with related work experience was key to securing the opportunity at Allens. As such, the best advice I can give students who are seeking employment in human rights – whether at a commercial firm, at a consultancy, in a policy capacity, or at a community law centre – is to demonstrate your interest in the area through your employment history and an active involvement in related not-for-profits or NGOs. I have found that a demonstrated interest in international law may also contribute to your success in gaining employment in human rights. My heavy involvement with human rights organisations, such as Amnesty International, throughout my tertiary studies, played a significant role in leading me to my current position. I also had valuable corporate social responsibility advisory work experience in the resources sector in addition to experience at an international law firm, barristers’ chambers, and international law journal that was also instrumental in landing my current position. I encourage students to pursue an array of related opportunities while completing their studies.
MAKING THE MOST OF INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES ALLENS LINKLATERS
Our alliance with Linklaters connects our clients with an international network of legal leaders that spans 40 offices in 28 countries. Our global teams act as one, sharing knowledge, best practice approaches and talent to help solve our clients’ most complex problems. While we’re market leaders in our own jurisdictions, we’re even stronger together. A unique combination of in-depth local knowledge and global scale gives our clients a single entry point to the best strategic advice in multiple geographies and practice areas. Through complementary practices and close collaboration, we’re structured to combine seamless service with consistent quality advice for our clients. Our global network also allows our people to accelerate their careers, offering international secondments and opportunities to work with the world’s best lawyers on the most complex multijurisdictional matters in the market. For our people, the alliance means: • Opportunities to work on global deals with market leading lawyers. • Opportunities to work on multi-jurisdictional matters with a broader range of clients. • Access to Linklaters job opportunities globally. • International assignment opportunities (short & long term).
Having international counterparts allows us to experience new things, develop new thinking and If you are interested in pursuing a career in human constantly evolve. rights, please do not hesitate to contact me. I can be contacted via email at: chelsea.francis@allens. com.au or hrlegalgroupwa@amnesty.org.au.
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