Gowling WLG Achieves Trainee Retention Rate of 61 Percent

Gowling WLG has announced that it will retain 14 out of 23 trainees who are set to qualify this autumn, resulting in a retention rate of 61 percent.

The competition for newly qualified positions appears to have been particularly intense within the firm's London office. Here, only six roles were available for ten trainees, leading to three securing positions in London. Additionally, one trainee is relocating to Birmingham, while another is moving to the firm's Dubai office.

Although Gowling WLG does not regularly disclose its trainee retention scores, the firm has historically maintained rates of 80 percent or higher. This latest figure marks a notable deviation from that trend.

The firm stated that its newly qualified lawyer appointments are aligned with business needs, allowing it to invest in areas with the strongest client demand and growth potential. This approach aims to uphold the high performance culture that is integral to the firm's success while providing trainees with opportunities to develop long term careers.

According to the Legal Cheek Firms Most List, Gowling recruits up to 25 trainees annually, with newly qualified salaries currently set at £105,000 in London and £65,500 in Birmingham.

Recently, the firm introduced a new training contract pathway specifically for those aiming to qualify in real estate, which will run concurrently with its existing training programme.

There are concerns regarding the current state of the newly qualified market, with some commentators suggesting that external factors, including geopolitical tensions and advancements in legal technology, may be contributing to the challenges faced by trainees.

Chris Towle, who joined Gowling WLG as a trainee over two decades ago, currently serves as the UK Chief Executive Officer, reflecting the firm's commitment to nurturing talent from within.