Coulter Legal’s Winning Formula: Flexibility, Fairness & Fearless Leadership
In the ever-evolving quest for gender equity in the workplace, Coulter Legal is not just ticking boxes, they’re setting the standard. Twice crowned winner of the SME Gender Equity Award, this progressive firm is demonstrating what’s possible when leadership is driven by values, and policies are designed with real people in mind.
Their approach is simple but revolutionary: equity is not a goal, it’s a way of operating. “No one’s career development is compromised because they take parental leave,” says Belinda Perisic, Director and COO. That’s not just talk. Coulter Legal has proudly promoted women into senior roles while they were still on parental leave.
Principal Lawyer Alicia Carroll credits this to leadership consistency. “It’s not just one initiative,” she explains. “It’s about sustained, systemic change, paid parental leave for both parents, promotion opportunities during leave, flexible work, and leadership accountability.”
But perhaps the most compelling aspect is the impact. Director Stefan Manche highlights how external recognition has energised the internal workforce: “Winning the award helped our employees better understand and engage in our DEI policies. It’s increased participation and enhanced our employer brand.”
Coulter Legal is proof that with courage, clarity, and commitment, equity is not only possible, it’s powerful.
Takeaways:
- Promoted employees during parental leave, ensuring career continuity.
- Embedded flexible working across all roles, not just senior levels.
- Gender equity is led from the top and woven into daily practice.
- External recognition has strengthened internal engagement and talent attraction.
- Equity isn’t aspirational, it’s operational at Coulter Legal.
👏 A standing ovation for leading with integrity and heart.
