MultiCultural Law Magazine interviewed Manatt's National Chair of Diversity Jack Yeh, who is also a partner in the firm's Litigation practice, for an article profiling the success of Manatt's Diversity program, which Yeh helped launch in 2003.
In its profile of the program, MultiCultural Law Magazine notes that Yeh had very few reference points for the program, as it was created during a time when there were no industry models to follow. Traditionally, law firms responded to clients' inquiries on diversity by stating their strict non-discrimination policies. But Yeh envisioned a program that would focus on diverse lawyers as individuals, thereby distinguishing Manatt's program as one that specifically targets the success of those at the firm. This philosophy has become the foundation for how the firm recruits, mentors, and promotes its diverse lawyers.
"I knew that our law firm was filled with wonderfully brilliant lawyers from extremely diverse backgrounds," he said. "The creativity and collegiality of these folks was at the core of our culture. That was our strength - our people."
"Our diverse lawyers are extremely important assets to our business," said Manatt's CEO and Managing Partner William Quicksilver. "If we invest our financial and human capital in them, we'll see a return. Their growth - personally and professionally - will be a catalyst for the growth of the entire law firm."