While most law firm internships are focussed exclusively on attracting future lawyers, magic circle law firm Linklaters has launched a virtual global business teams internship programme aimed at 16- to 18-year-old students. The new internship, which will be welcomed by many for shining a light on the key functions that enable a law firm to run and succeed, will help interns to become aware of the wide range of career options available at Linklaters.
Consisting of five modules, the free online programme gives school students the opportunity to virtually experience working in one of the firm’s business teams functions: marketing, finance, legal operations, technology and HR.
Matt Peers, Linklaters’ global chief operating officer, said: “Our business teams provide critical services to support our lawyers in delivering a best-in-class service to our clients. To attract and develop future top talent in our business teams, we need to keep raising awareness of access to opportunities at our firm and ensure we’re accessing talent from a diverse range of backgrounds. Our business teams virtual internship looks to do just that.”
While the internship is an isolated event with no career progression as such, we understand that it is likely that the recruitment department will stay in touch with promising candidates.
The virtual internship complements the recent launch of Linklaters business teams advance programme – an 18 month programme specifically designed for talented individuals from diverse backgrounds looking to advance their career by receiving on the job training whilst being financially supported for a relevant external qualification.
Broadening access to careers at Linklaters is key to achieving Linklaters’ goal, outlined in its Race Action Plan, of supporting the next generation of black and minority ethnic talent, including increasing the opportunities available to students in the early stages of the career life cycle.