Retention & Advancement Initiatives
Retention & Advancement Initiatives
Recruiting talented lawyers is only the first step. We are deeply committed to creating an environment where our lawyers can grow, thrive, and have a fulfilling career. That commitment is reflected in our focus on mentorship, sponsorship, and career development, as well as our investment in family-friendly policies that support the whole person. Our firmwide networks—open to all lawyers—foster connection, community, and belonging across offices and practice areas. Through these efforts, we work to ensure that every lawyer has access to the support, relationships, and opportunities needed to build a lasting and meaningful career at Winston.
The program is designed to create meaningful, sustained relationships. Sponsors and protégés connect monthly for one-on-one conversations, with structured support to help guide their engagement. We kick off the year-long program with a robust orientation that includes presentations, guest speakers, and clear expectation-setting for both sponsors and protégés.
To ensure continued momentum and success of the program, we host a mid-year check-in and a closing group meeting. In addition to the monthly sponsor/protégé meetings, throughout the year, protégés participate in coaching circles; webinars on a range of professional development topics; and “Power Hours”—informal group sessions where small groups of sponsors speak candidly with all protégés about career growth, leadership, and navigating the firm.
The program is designed to create meaningful, sustained relationships. Sponsors and protégés connect monthly for one-on-one conversations, with structured support to help guide their engagement. We kick off the year-long program with a robust orientation that includes presentations, guest speakers, and clear expectation-setting for both sponsors and protégés.
To ensure continued momentum and success of the program, we host a mid-year check-in and a closing group meeting. In addition to the monthly sponsor/protégé meetings, throughout the year, protégés participate in coaching circles; webinars on a range of professional development topics; and “Power Hours”—informal group sessions where small groups of sponsors speak candidly with all protégés about career growth, leadership, and navigating the firm.
Having a sponsor who truly understood and supported my goals was incredibly impactful for my growth. The program gave me access to guidance, visibility, and opportunities that have helped shape the lawyer I am today.
John Drosick, Associate and Sponsorship Program Alum
Participation in Winston’s Associate Sponsorship Program gave me access to the most influential decision-makers at the firm, which is both inspirational and empowering.
Shawn Obi, Los Angeles, Partner and Sponsorship Program Alum
At Winston, we understand that supporting lawyers with families is critical to their long-term career success. We’re proud to offer family-friendly benefits that promote balance and flexibility, including:
- 20 weeks’ paid parental leave, regardless of caregiver status
- Partner-level Parental Leave Liaison
- Reduced hour targets during “ramp down” and “ramp up” periods
- Career strategist for working parents
- Free overnight breast milk delivery and on-site nursing rooms
- Discounted back-up childcare (60 days in year one; 15 days/year thereafter)
- Family Network lawyer network
- Flexible hours options