2024 DIVERSITY DATABASE UNDERWRITER Sullivan & Cromwell LLP

Our Survey Says

VAULT'S VERDICT:

At Sullivan & Cromwell, expect top-notch work, top compensation, and top opportunities for pro bono work. Candidates must have elite credentials with respect to the law school attended and grades and can expect a pleasant yet professional office setting. Coworkers socialize, but not to the detriment of their personal lives. Partners value associates, appreciate their contributions, and seem deeply invested in their training and development. The hands-on guidance that associates receive from partners is supplemented by more formal workshops and skills academies, though more attention could be given to onboarding lateral hires. Associates engage in some basic tasks, but most projects are interesting and often complex, and the firm has a formal staffing system. Sullivan & Cromwell does not impose a billable hour requirement or threshold for a bonus, but associates still work a lot. Compensation matches the market. Firm technology is fine, with associates able to transition between the office and home smoothly. Wellness efforts include gym access and a nutritionist. The firm strongly supports pro bono work as a way for associates to get direct project experience, and there’s no limit on the number of pro bono hours associates can work. Diversity activities, events, and recruiting are notable, but the firm could improve its retention and promotion of women and attorneys from other underrepresented groups. Making equity partner is difficult, though possible, and many senior associates transition to special counsel roles. Others accept clerkships, move to other firms, or go in-house.