Lesley Gregory named Mentor of the Year at the Women in Law Awards 2020

The awards champion the achievements and innovations of women across all areas of legal practice, helping to shape the discussion on how diversity can be improved by highlighting some of the most forward-thinking and inspiring individuals.

Following a submission process, the awards were judged by an extensive panel of professionals, including Business Leader, Lawyer and Diversity Campaigner Dr Funke Abimbola MBE, Senior Partner and Chairman of the UK Board of CMS Penelope Warne, and Deputy Vice President of The Law Society, Stephanie Boyce.

Lesley was shortlisted against 10 other lawyers, and was commended for her proven track record in helping women to rise through to senior leadership positions. In addition to ‘Mentor of the Year’, Lesley was also shortlisted for ‘Law Firm Leader of the Year’ and ‘Dealmaker of the Year’.

The ceremony took place on Wednesday 11 November, via an online ceremony.

Lesley is one of the few female chairs of a UK law firm, and was previously CEO of Memery Crystal. She founded a successful female entrepreneurs’ network, the ‘Women in Business Network’, and encourages an internal culture focused on diversity – all whilst maintaining her top-rated corporate practice. Lesley is also Chair of Memery Crystal’s charitable foundation. She recently won ‘Legal Adviser of the Year’ at the Women in Finance Awards and was highly commended by the Law Society’s Excellence Awards.

Lesley said: “Mentoring is the cornerstone to success and it is vital that women support other women both personally and professionally, regardless of seniority in a company.

“I’ve worked in law for over 30 years and have mentored many female solicitors and other members of staff at all stages of their careers, sharing the insight of my experience and encouraging them to excel. Through organisations such as ‘Women in Business’ and the Allbright Club Mentoring Scheme, I also provide female founders and professionals with support, advice and access to their own mentors.

“I was once a young lawyer in this industry and experienced a real lack of female role models and supportive networks where I could go to talk about the specific challenges I was facing and ask for advice on my leadership style. I believe having a space where you are free to talk openly about your experiences and gain advice is so important in enabling you to thrive in your career, gain the confidence to go for promotions, and not experience burnout. Countering this issue was my main motivation for founding the Women in Business Network and ensuring we had a formal mentoring system within Memery Crystal, providing guidance and support to all employees and to help create a positive working culture for all.

“I am delighted to have won this award, and will continue to ensure that women in the legal profession feel empowered and supported.”