DLA Piper is offering students an insightful experience into the development of their new Leeds office, spanning three years.
- The programme launched with a skills event at DLA Piper’s current office, focusing on careers in the development sector.
- Students will interact with professionals from various fields, gaining understanding of the projects’ complexities.
- Led by Ahead Partnership, initiatives aim to connect students with future career pathways over multiple engagements.
- Selected students from Mount St Mary’s Catholic High School will witness the office’s transformation first-hand.
DLA Piper has embarked on an initiative designed to immerse students in the rich and intricate journey of developing its new office in Leeds. This pioneering programme, entitled MyExperience@ City Square House, extends across a three-year period, meticulously documenting the transformation from the initial construction phases to the finalisation of a modern workplace environment. This venture aims not only to inform students about the multifaceted nature of such projects but also to provide them with valuable insights into potential career opportunities within the realm of professional services.
The programme commenced with a dynamic event hosted at DLA Piper’s current premises in Princes Square. Here, students engaged in an interactive building modelling competition, a hands-on activity allowing them to simulate real-world scenarios. Moreover, participants had the distinctive opportunity to engage in ‘speed networking’ sessions, where they conversed with representatives from DLA Piper’s Property and Workplace department, the developer MRP, and advisory firms such as Gardiner and Theobald. This engagement was carefully designed to illuminate the diversity of roles and responsibilities encompassed in the development process.
Facilitated by the Ahead Partnership, known for its innovative ESG solutions and commitment to societal impact, this initiative strategically aligns with efforts to inspire and guide youth as they contemplate future career paths. Stephanie Burras CBE highlighted the enduring nature of the programme, which connects students with various professionals, fostering an understanding of decision-making processes and corporate dynamics over time.
Ruth Williamson, a Partner in Real Estate at DLA Piper, emphasised the firm’s dedication to leveraging its industry standing to contribute positively to community development. Through strategic programmes and partnerships, DLA Piper endeavours to enhance employability skills, confidence, and career aspirations among young individuals. By embedding themselves in the developmental journey, students gain essential insights into the operations of a large corporate entity across different domains, from legal matters to human resources and management.
The initiative is a pivotal part of several social value programmes orchestrated by Ahead Partnership in collaboration with leading employers. It seeks to empower participants, irrespective of their backgrounds, to realise their full potential. Notably, 20 students from Mount St Mary’s Catholic High School have been selected, offering them a unique chance to observe and partake in the comprehensive developmental narrative of the new office space.
This initiative represents a significant stride towards integrating education and industry experience, fostering future career readiness among participating students.
