International firm Eversheds Sutherland has elected its biggest round of partners since its merger in 2017 despite the ‘uniquely challenging global environment’, with almost half of the promotions going to women.

Of the 38 new partners announced today – up from 27 last year –18 are women and nine are based in the UK. Eversheds Sutherland said the figures are in line with its goal to achieve 30% female representation at partner level by 2021. Two of the new UK partners are minority ethnic which supports the target of achieving 10% of UK partners of ethnicity by 2025, the firm said. 

Lee Ranson, chief executive, said: ‘We are currently operating in a uniquely challenging global environment, but I know that our 2020 cohort will continue to deliver excellence in client service as they take this significant step in their careers.’

Earlier this month, Eversheds Sutherland furloughed employees who are unable to work remotely and delayed bonuses and pay rises. It said partner distributions are also likely to be deferred.

Linklaters, CMS and Herbert Smith Freehills have also announced strong partner promotion rounds despite the pandemic.