Matrix was set up in 2000 in response to the changing face of the legal landscape at that time. We wanted to achieve a different working model from the traditional English chambers and, at the time of our establishment, we were labelled “the future of the Bar”. We are proud of our record of innovation and of our reputation as an accessible, professional and approachable set. Our actions are guided by our core values, which outline our principles as an organisation and govern how we work. We operate within a modern environment, where diversity, accessibility and client care are widely championed.
Our mission statement
“To be an excellent, innovative provider of legal services domestically and internationally”
Our Senior Management
The organisation is led by Hugh Southey QC, who is the Chair of our Management Committee. Our staff team, business development and operational structure is managed by our Chief Executive, Lindsay Scott. Our financial management is the responsibility of our Chief Operating Officer, Kevin Hooper. Our practice desk staff and members are managed by Practice Director, Jason Housden.
Matrix was accredited in 2016 as an Investors in People Platinum organisation, which recognises that our organisation works at the highest standard of people management. Find out more about Investors in People on their website.
Our Commitment to Inclusion and Diversity
In line with our core values, Matrix invests a great deal of time and effort into the realisation of equal opportunities at work and at the Bar. Matrix is a committed advocate of equality in all aspects. Below are just some of the projects we have been involved in to contribute to the progression and diversity of the Bar. If you would like to know more or have an idea for collaborating with us, your first point of contact in this area is our Project Manager, Natalie Hearn.
We are an equal opportunities employer. If you are interested in access and recruitment to the profession, including our work experience programme, contact Lindsay Clarke or visit our Recruitment page.
Diversity Data Publication
The Bar Standards Board Code of Conduct states that a summary of the Diversity Data submitted by the Members of the Workforce be published on chambers’ website by 31 December 2012 and thereafter every three years. The summary for our 2016 data, in accordance with these rules, can be found here (Matrix Diversity Data 2016) and below.
For questions relating to our equality and diversity regulations, please contact our Equality and Diversity Officers Lindsay Scott and Mathew Purchase.
Stonewall
Matrix is committed to creating a safe environment where everyone is able to be themselves. We are one of the few barristers’ chambers who are members of Stonewall, the LGBT charity, as part of their Diversity Champion Programme. Kevin Hooper, our Chief Operating Officer, is our Diversity Champion.
Black Solicitors’ Network and UK Diversity Legal Table
In 2013 and 2014 Matrix was ranked number one in the BSN UK Diversity Legal Table, winning Chambers of the Year. In 2014, Matrix also won the Retention: Talent Management Award for our work. We were commended for our dedicated approach to diversity across a number of protected characteristics. Overall staff and member retention improved measurably and we also reported a very significant percentage of members self-declaring as LGBT.
We have held open days specifically for those from black and minority ethnic backgrounds to come to Matrix and ask questions about what life is like as a barrister. We are due to run more of these events. If you are interested in attending, contact Lindsay Clarke.
Mind Workplace Wellbeing Programme
We are proud to be one of the first legal organisations to sign up to newly launched Mind Workplace Wellbeing Index to benchmark what we do to promote mental health support and wellbeing at Matrix. In March 2017, Matrix were awarded Silver in the Index, which demonstrates we are achieving impact within our workplace.
FreeBar, the LGBT+ Network for the Bar
We are proud to be one of the first legal organisations to sign up to newly launched Mind Workplace Wellbeing Index to benchmark what we do to promote mental health support and wellbeing at Matrix. In March 2017, Matrix were awarded Silver in the Index, which demonstrates we are achieving impact within our workplace.
Disability and accessibility at Matrix
Matrix’s premises are compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act and we are very willing to make any reasonable adjustment you may need when visiting us; please contact our Equality and Diversity Officers Lindsay Scott and Mathew Purchase.
We have held open days at Matrix for students with disabilities who are interested in a career at the Bar. We are due to run more of these events. If you are interested in attending, contact Lindsay Clarke.
Promoting gender equality
Matrix is dedicated to the promotion and advancement of women both in the workplace, and specifically at the Bar. We regularly host events that tackle issues facing women across different backgrounds and across the world. If you are interested in signing up, please email through our mailing list. Matrix has an internal women’s network for both members and staff to discuss gender issues. Our members have also commented on gender issues facing the Bar and the judiciary in the media.