DLA Piper’s Sandra Wallace named among Britain’s most influential Black people for fifth year running

For the fifth consecutive year, DLA Piper's Joint Managing Director, UK and Europe, Sandra Wallace has been listed as one of the 100 most influential Black people in Britain, in the Black Powerlist 2022.

Now in its 15th year, the annual list celebrates people of African and African Caribbean heritage in the UK in the business, science, technology and arts industries. It is compiled by an independent judging panel of influential figures, who recognise individuals who have changed lives or are making a huge difference.

Commenting, Sandra said: "I am truly honoured to once again have been included in this prestigious list alongside so many great finalists. Our industry still has some way to go when it comes to diversity, inclusion and social mobility, however we continue to be fully committed to playing our part in driving the necessary change in the profession."

Appointed to the role of Joint Managing Director of Europe in January 2017, Sandra has also served as DLA Piper's UK Managing Partner from 2015 to 2018. In 2018, she was appointed as a Social Mobility Commissioner for the UK government. More recently, Sandra became interim Co-Chair of the Social Mobility Commission where she is responsible for ensuring there is cohesive collaboration between the Commission and a range of stakeholders including ministers, senior government officials, representatives from local communities and experts in the field. In her role, Sandra has been a key driver in enhancing social mobility in the legal profession, and she works closely with the firm's Board and Responsible Business team to focus on the barriers young people face and make tangible changes to processes.

Sandra has also recently been listed as one of the 20 most influential people in Legal Services by Financial News. In the listing she was recognised not only for her management roles but for continuing to play an active role within the firm's Employment law practice. She was also recognised as a passionate believer in social mobility and equality.