Osborne Clarke retains 92 per cent of its newly qualified trainees

Osborne Clarke, an international law practice with an office in Reading, has retained 92 per cent of its newly qualified trainees, as 25 of the 27 remain with the firm as newly qualified solicitors in 2022.

Two of these are in its Reading office: Dan Charie joins the firm’s employment team, while Chris Flach joins its corporate team. The remaining 23 are located across its Bristol and London offices.

Alexandra Gower, Partner and Training Principal at Osborne Clarke, said: "Congratulations to our trainees who have shown great determination and dedication throughout their training.  We're especially pleased that so many have chosen to stay on with the firm again this year.

"Much of the feedback we get from our trainees is that they like the well-rounded experience we offer.  It's something we pride ourselves on – investing our energy and resources to ensure each trainee's needs are supported. 

“Alongside our focus on outstanding legal expertise, we also look to develop confidence, grow emotional intelligence and help our trainees to build their relationships with colleagues and clients. These are the skills we know will set them up for success as the next generation of leading lawyers."

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Graham de Guise, Chief People Officer at Osborne Clarke, said: "Let's be honest, one of the big reasons we all get out of bed in the morning is because we feel rewarded at work. But feeling appreciated and valued is very specific to each individual.

“Quite often it's a combination of everything from working with a supportive team and manager, to being challenged by the work, to how well you are financially recognised for your contributions.

“We've spent the last year looking closely at all these elements and more to ensure our people have the best experience working for the firm. One part of this has been to regularly review our reward strategy and benchmark rates.

“We've increased our London salaries to £90,000 as we aim to be competitive with firms that we compete against for talent and work.

“We've set the rate for Reading at 10% less than London – £81,000, as we feel it's a genuine alternative given its proximity to and ease of commute from the city. For Bristol, we aim to keep our pay in the top three of all Bristol firms and have set our rate at £69,000."

Earlier this month, Osborne Clarke's Reading-based corporate team advised the founders of craft brewer Beavertown on its sale to HEINEKEN UK.

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