Gowling WLG Trainee Retention Score Drops to 61% Amid Competitive Market

• Gowling WLG's trainee retention score has dropped to 61%
• Only 14 out of 23 trainees due to qualify this autumn secured a spot at the firm
• The low score is particularly notable in Gowling WLG's London office, where just six roles were available among 10 trainees
• Gowling WLG recruits up to 25 trainees each year and offers NQ salaries of £105,000 in London and £65,500 in Birmingham

The process is focused on maintaining the high-performance culture that underpins our success and providing our trainees with the opportunity to build long-term careers at the firm.

Gowling WLG's trainee retention score has dropped to 61%, with only 14 out of 23 trainees due to qualify this autumn securing a spot at the firm. This marks a significant departure from the firm's typical retention scores, which have usually sat above 80%. The low score is particularly notable in Gowling WLG's London office, where just six roles were available among 10 trainees, with only three ultimately securing positions in the capital.

Gowling WLG typically recruits up to 25 trainees each year, and its newly qualified lawyer appointments are made in line with business needs. The firm's NQ salaries currently stand at £105,000 in London and £65,500 in Birmingham. In a bid to attract top talent, Gowling WLG recently launched a new training contract pathway for those seeking to qualify in real estate, which runs alongside its existing programme.

Gowling WLG's relatively low trainee retention score may indicate a more competitive market for newly qualified lawyers at the firm. This could have significant implications for aspiring lawyers considering futures contracts with Gowling WLG, particularly those seeking to qualify in real estate. The firm's UK CEO, Chris Towle, who joined as a rookie over 20 years ago, will be closely watching how this development affects the firm's ability to attract and retain top talent.

Lawyers and compliance officers should be aware of Gowling WLG's relatively low trainee retention score, which may indicate a more competitive market for newly qualified lawyers in the firm.

Source: Original reporting via Legal Cheek