Linklaters has rolled out a trial program that offers associates the choice to take a substantial pay cut in exchange for more work-life balance.
The Magic Circle outfit has launched the alternative career track it calls “YourLink” in Germany, according to
Legal Business. Under the program, associates will work to a 40-hour work week, with exact clock-in times, and no more, but take a hefty cut to their pay cheque.
“YourLink” associates are offered €80,000 in their first year, while associates in the regular career path are offered €120,000 in their first year.
“We are treating the Germany 40-hour week model as a pilot to understand how it works and how it might be adopted for other markets. It is an example of how we are trying to innovate with different types of flexible working to ensure we attract and retain the very best talent,” a spokesperson of the firm told the publication.
In Germany, McDermott Will & Emery and Baker McKenzie also offer limited or flexible hours arrangements for lower pay.
In North America, Baker McKenzie, Jackson Lewis, and Morgan Lewis & Bockius recently launched flexible working programs that include remote work, alternative hours, and reduced work weeks.
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