But they were all beaten by Aldi
All five of the magic circle firms have been name-checked in this year’s “top graduate employers list”.
The list — which features 100 companies across a range of business sectors — has been compiled thanks to a nationwide study undertaken by market research outfit High Flyers on behalf of The Times newspaper.
Questioning over 18,000 students who graduated this summer, companies have been scrutinised on everything from their quality of training and development to how much cash they chuck at their new recruits. And — probably much to their relief — all five magic circle firms have made the cut.
The accolade of highest placing law firm on this year’s list goes to Clifford Chance. The firm — which recently revealed plans to cut training contract numbers by a hefty 20% — notched up a respectable 30th position. Despite dropping two places since last year, the firm has managed to stay ahead of rivals Allen & Overy and Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer who finished in 36th and 38th respectively.
Linklaters came in at 39th place — two higher than last year — just ahead of engineering giant Atkins. Meanwhile, Slaughter and May — which offers around 80 training contract places each year — took 56th spot, just behind MI5.
Away from the magic circle, six other law firms have been recognised for their graduate-related endeavors.
Global duo Baker & McKenzie and Herbert Smith Freehills placed 57th and 69th, meanwhile DLA Piper, taking 74th place, was narrowly beaten by the Royal Air Force. Further down the list, Norton Rose Fulbright bagged the 78th top spot, just ahead of international outfit Hogan Lovells and national law firm Irwin Mitchell, which placed 82nd and 85th respectively.
Seeing off stiff competition from discount supermarket chain Aldi (2nd), top spot went to accountancy powerhouse PwC.
