Canterbury law firm Saunders Robinson Brown has been named the Gender Diverse Organisation of the Year at the 2019 Women in Governance Awards.

Nikki Harkers (SRB), Minister for Women Julie Anne Genter
and Anna Fox (SRB) at the Award ceremony.

The awards are organised by Women on Boards NZ, a business unit of Governance New Zealand. They recognise and celebrate innovation, excellence, creativity and commitment to diversity by both organisations and individuals. The 2019 awards were announced at a special Gala Dinner in Auckland on 20 June and presented by the Minister for Women, Julie Anne Genter.

Awarding the title to Saunders Robinson Brown, the judges said the firm had “demonstrated strong female representation in governance and senior leadership."

"They have shown commitment over a number of years to embed diversity strategies that have ensured female employees receive the mentoring and training they need to enable them to attain their career goals. Their commitment to gender equality is unquestionable.”

Saunders Robinson Brown's managing partner Anna Fox says the firm is extremely proud of its achievement.

"We have worked hard to ensure that we are a positive example of a law firm committed to gender equality and diversity," she says. "We have developed a culture which enables women to succeed, removing obstacles, rather than creating them. It is fantastic to be recognised for this.”

Simpson Grierson partner Sally McKechnie was a finalist in the Emerging Governance Leader award.