The path to sustainability. That’s law.
The path to sustainability. That’s law.
Sustainability
About the Report
On our path to a sustainable future we are aware that illustrating our efforts and the progress we have made decisively contributes to building trust and encouraging positive changes.
As a forward-looking law firm we strongly believe in the importance of transparency and responsibility. We therefore proudly publish the present Sustainability Report, which proves our constant commitment to responsible business practices.
Five years ago fwp was the first large business law firm in Austria to present its contributions to a more sustainable society as part of its core business transparently to the public.”
The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which also Austria, as one of 193 countries, committed to comply with in September 2015, provide important guidance for our sustainability strategy. This Report is addressed to all stakeholders of fwp.
The Sustainability Report is the successor report to the CSR Report of Fellner Wratzfeld & Partner Rechtsanwälte GmbH (hereinafter “fwp”), which was published in 2019. Five years ago fwp was the first large business law firm in Austria to present its contributions to a more sustainable society as part of its core business transparently to the public. In order to continue our pioneering role and show our commitment to the public, we have decided once again to publish our internal and external activities related to sustainability, as well as our projects and goals in the form of a transparent report.
The Report was approved for release by the Management without any external re view. It contains information concerning the period from 1 2023 (except for the data marked with an *, for which the relevant period is stated separately) and relates to Fellner Wratzfeld & Partner Rechtsanwälte GmbH, Schot tenring 12, 1010 Vienna, Austria.
Since we are constantly developing in all areas, we are committed to adapting and improving this Report periodically as well. Please send any remarks, ideas or sugges tions for improvement you may have to feedback and encourage you to maintain a dialogue with us.
Foreword
Dear readers,
Since fwp was founded some 25 years ago we have been aware that a responsible undertaking means more than merely providing our clients with legal expertise. It means taking proactive steps to preserve and protect our environment.
Consequently, it is of eminent importance to us to establish sustainable action as a guiding principle of fwp’s. Our goal is to make a difference in the various and multifaceted areas of sustainability on which we can proudly look back in many years. We are very pleased to present our current Sustainability Report, which describes both our internal efforts and external activities in the area of sustainability in detail. This Report is a manifestation of our wish to be transparent and shows the progress we have made and the initiatives we have taken. It outlines the ambitious goals which drive our continuous endeavours towards a more sustainable future.
As an employer of approx. 140 dedicated and motivated employees we are aware of our role in furthering a flourishing, socially responsible community. We have always aimed to be a sustainable employer that creates an environment fostering growth and diversity. Our efforts in the areas of diversity, in which we actively promote the diversity of our staff and endeavour to support female talent through different forms of cooperation, are just the beginning. Finding the right balance between work and family is a top priority of ours, which is why we not only commend part-time work in leading positions but also adapt the work environment to this change.
We have always been aware of the fact that our efforts must have an impact, not only internally but also beyond the boundaries of our firm. In the last few years we as the fwp.TEAM have thus actively participated in charity projects and provided support to people in need through initiatives such as social volunteering or regular running exercises in cooperation with the Austrian association in support of the blind and visually impaired (Hilfsgemeinschaft für Blinde und Sehschwache). These moments of giving not only changed the lives of people in need but also enriched our own lives.
Consequently, it is of eminent importance to us to establish sustainable action as a guiding principle of fwp’s.”
In addition, our activities are focused on our constant commitment to preserving the valuable resources of our planet. Encouraged by a pronounced awareness of the impact of our work on the environment we have looked for ways to reduce our carbon footprint and introduce sustainable work methods. Through our internal changes and financial support of environmentally-friendly projects we have shown that we want to be an active part of the solution for a healthier and more sustainable world.
We are very proud of our success stories but we also know that the path to sustainability is subject to constant development and will pose more challenges for us to overcome. Nonetheless, our efforts will continue, driven by the conviction that even small measures can lead to fundamental positive changes.
This Sustainability Report is proof of the collective endeavours of our entire organisation and a promise to continue our pioneering work in this field. We are convinced that what we do today will shape the world of tomorrow and would like to thank our employees, clients and partners for their support on that path.
Cordially, Markus Fellner
Markus Fellner
Christoph Heinzel
All areas of law are very well covered.
Tasks are handled quickly and expeditiously. Top quality is delivered at the speed of light.”
The Legal500
About fwp
With some 140 employees, including 70 attorneys, and a global network of partner law firms, fwp is one of Austria’s leading law firms in all areas of business law.
Our clients include financial institutions in Austria and abroad, Austrian and international business entities from different industries and of different sizes, as well as the public sector. fwp is managed as a limited liability company (GmbH) by ten partners, who are shareholders as well.
International
network
fwp is engaged at an international level, which means that our activities extend to cross-border cases and transactions. That is why we believe in intensive and longterm cooperation with international partner firms. As a successful business law firm based in Vienna we are a member of one of the largest global lawyer networks.
TerraLex, a network of some 15,000 attorneys, is strongly focused on the areas of antitrust, banking, insolvency law and corporate. In addition, our active membership of the Association of European Lawyers (AEL) is especially relevant with regard to pan-European issues. AEL is a network of 40 independent law firms that intensively cooperate in cross-border transactions and cases involving multiple jurisdictions.
The partnerships and our memberships of most different networks underline our focus as an international Austrian law firm engaged in the area of business law. Being a member of the international lawyer networks TerraLex and AEL, fwp can rely on international consultancy expertise in more than 110 countries.
Awards
Our goal is to provide our clients with the best, tailored and most efficient solutions for their legal challenges. A perfectly attuned combination of experts with longstanding experience and professional know-how allows us to advise our clients comprehensively. We are convinced that every case deserves top-level expertise and bespoke strategies to achieve the desired goals. Since the establishment of our law firm 25 years ago we have thus worked unrelentingly and use our expertise and resources to achieve the best possible results for our clients.
This commitment to our clients in the last few decades has not remained unnoticed. Numerous awards and top listings in national and international rankings are proof of the commitment and passion with which our team provides extraordinary legal services.
High level of competence in spe cialist areas and good knowledge of the banking landscape.”
Chambers and Partners
Sustainability at fwp
For a quarter of a century fwp has been a pioneer in the legal landscape, providing excellent services for its clients.
Many years ago, however, we became aware that our responsibility goes beyond providing legal advice to national and international clients.
As we are a responsible organisation our activities must be designed with a view to the welfare of our planet, our communities and society itself. Our constant efforts for improvement, starting from the social aspects which we wish to fully comply with as an employer, up to economic goals which we intend to achieve proactively, lead us on a path towards sustainable success.
As one of the biggest Austrian law firms we are aware of our responsibility and try to convey it not only to our employees but also to all stakeholders. In order to ensure the continuity and effectiveness of our sustainability efforts we established a Sustainability Committee a few years ago. It is staffed with voluntary representatives from different departments, puts different perspectives on the table and pursues the joint goal of driving positive and sustainable changes.
In doing so, our Sustainability Committee plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable practices in the different areas of fwp. The core activities are regular meetings of dedicated staff members who plan the integration of sustainability principles and develop strategies. The regular meetings serve as important forums for brainstorming and decision-making processes at which the steps towards improving the sustainability efforts are documented in every detail.
Our constant efforts for improvement, lead us on a path towards sustainable success.”
In addition, the Sustainability Committee is actively engaged in the planning and assessment of the implementation of sustainable initiatives. Its activities include defining clear goals, schedules and measurable targets to ensure that the outlined steps will actually be implemented in practice. By closely monitoring the progress made the Committee ensures that sustainability remains a priority in all areas of the organisation.
Sustainability Committee
Structure of the Report
The following pages of the Sustainability Report describe how sustainability is lived and implemented by fwp.
The structure follows the ESG motto: Environmental, Social and Governance.
As the following pages will show, our sustainability ambition is reflected in every aspect of our work. We know that the environment is not only a backdrop but a valuable resource that sustains all areas of life. With a great sense of responsibility we have taken measures to minimise our ecological footprint, protect natural resources and contribute to the fight against climate change. The measures include the introduction of IT adaptations, energy-efficient work approaches and the support of projects protecting the environment.
Another pillar is social sustainability. As a longtime employer we are proud to offer a workplace culture which supports our employees’ growth and well-being. We consider it important to offer manifold career opportunities, promote women in law and enable a work-life balance to ensure that our team members are successful both in their personal and professional development. By getting involved in social initiatives providing support to less fortunate people we are able to make a difference also outside our offices.
Moreover, our entire sustainability concept is supported by responsible management, which includes governance. Our values serve as guiding principles, which are the basis for ethical and transparent decision-making. We believe that responsible governance based on integrity and openness will foster and deepen trust not only among our clients but also among our partners and stakeholders.
We know that our measures constitute an important step but that real improvement is a steady process. On the following pages we will describe the specific measures that have been implemented already. In addition, we will outline our ambitious goals for the future, by which we will raise the bar even higher and wish to set new standards for practices in the areas of Environment, Social and Governance.
Trends and challenges in our field of work
In today’s rapidly developing world law firms have to face a number of challenges that require adjustments and new evaluations.
As one of the leading Austrian law firms fwp is aware of the changes in our field, in particular in view of technological progress.
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and other technological developments seemed promising for legal practitioners yet disconcerting at the same time. In Austria and beyond, law firms must deal with the issue of how those developments will impact traditional forms of legal practice. In this context it must be borne in mind that the rise of AI has already started to reshape our workflows, rationalise processes, improve research skills and optimise the analysis of huge amounts of legal data.
In the midst of that technological wave we do, however, firmly believe that human competence and professional understanding will continue to be indispensable. Even though AI may be able to automate certain tasks, it can be no substitute for differentiated expertise or the understanding of experienced and competent lawyers. The complicated nature of legal disputes and the complex decision-making processes in legal matters underline the need for personal action by professionals.
AI and technology require adaptations but are no substitute for human expertise and personal contacts.
When dealing with everyday challenges and considering initial reluctance we must not ignore the favourable trends and developments which reshape the legal industry. Technical tools have become essential aids in our daily work which allow us to work efficiently and focused on achieving our goals. Those tools enhance our skills and allow us to advise our clients in the best way possible.
Apart from that, technology has heralded a new era of flexibility which liberates us from the limitedness of traditional office space and allows seamless collaboration independent of place.
In summary, it can be said that the challenges currently facing law firms are not to be underestimated, but that they also come with exciting opportunities. The rise of AI and technological tools requires adaptations but does not overshadow the continuing significance of human expertise and personal contacts with our clients. While we benefit from the progress made, we remain fully convinced that even though the landscape may evolve, the core principles of well-founded and solution-oriented legal advice as well as meaningful relations will continue to define our path. Thanks to strategic innovation and unrelenting commitment to our clients we are able to cope with those changes and to design a dynamic future for legal practitioners.
Following the path of environmental protection. That’s law. (E)
Circular economy
Reduce paper consumption ENVIRONMENTAL
Environmental impact assessments
Optimize energy consumption
Public infrastructure
Environmental protection is a pillar of modern society – a shared responsibility across all industries and professions. As a pioneering law firm committed to shaping a sustainable future we live that responsibility.
In the field of legal advice we excel, among other things, due to our expertise in public environmental law. We act as counsel for our clients in crucial proceedings, e.g. regarding environmental impact assessments (EIA), which reflects our efforts to protect natural resources and maintain the ecological equilibrium. Due to our well-founded legal advice in this area we help design projects and political measures which respect and are compatible with our environment. In addition, we provide advice in the areas of sustainable finance, ESG and environmental impact assessments, and the circular economy.
However, our endeavours for the welfare of the environment go beyond mere legal advice. In our internal processes we drive transition through a number of initiatives aiming to minimise our ecological footprint. In the digital era we rely on technical innovations to reduce the use of paper and to optimise energy consumption, thus reducing our environmental impact.
fwp provides advice in the areas of sustainable finance, ESG and environmental impact assessments, and the circular economy.
Cooperation is the key to constant change and we actively look for partnerships that reinforce our impact. By supporting sustainable initiatives such
as promoting local, regional honey products we support a dynamic network of environmentalists. Those partnerships nourish not only the environment but also the communities and embody our holistic approach towards environmental protection.
In the following chapters we illustrate our work as legal counsel in more detail and explain the way in which we navigate in the complex territory of public environmental law and contribute to projects which are deemed cornerstones of sustainability. We will also present our internal and external efforts to protect the environment. Due to our unwavering principles and proactive endeavours we adhere to our mission to protect and preserve the environment for future generations.
fwp provides legal support for projects such as SLINK and the Brenner North Access Project.
Internal measures
Environmental protection / Resource management
Sustainable and future-oriented resource management, which includes strategic planning, efficient allocation and responsible use of natural resources to ensure long-term availability of the same, is of crucial importance to the protection of our environment.
In this context, introducing cloud solutions has become one of the focuses of our sustainability endeavours. By systematically relocating servers into the cloud we have been and are able to considerably reduce our energy and electricity consumption and in this way ensure that the ecological footprint of our operations will be reduced. The energy savings in this connection may be up to 93%. Studies have also shown that the change to cloud-based solutions such as Microsoft Azure may even reduce the carbon footprint by up to 98% compared to local solutions.1
At the same time our commitment to responsible technologies also extends to careful selection of equipment and devices. We refrain from using batteries and use rechargeable alternatives instead. Our goal is to be able to run our offices completely free from batteries by 2025, a small but significant step towards the reduction of electrical and electronic waste and towards saving resources.
Introducing cloud solutions has become one of the focuses of our sustainability endeavours.”
Our sense of duty in terms of sustainability is also reflected in our commitment to reuse and refurbishment of
devices. Instead of disposing of functioning legacy hardware, we prolong its life cycle by donating it to different educational institutions and relief organisations. This approach not only helps minimise the amount of waste but also allows others to use resources which they would otherwise hardly be able to afford.
A symbolic success on our path is the reduction in the use of paper. In the last four years we have made important progress and reduced our paper consumption by around 70% compared to the previous peak quantity of 10 tons. This success is the result of various measures, ranging from integration of innovative tools resulting in almost zero need to print documents up to promoting a culture of awareness among our employees. By offering comprehensive training that emphasises the reasonable use of both traditional and digital aids we were able to bring about behavioural changes that considerably reduce the wasting of paper.
As a responsible enterprise we have also become aware of the crucial role of waste separation in preserving the environment and made sure that we implement the same. In our firm, efficient separation of waste is the key to minimising the ecological impact. As a sign of our commitment to environmental protection we have developed a comprehensive system to optimise waste separation, by which we not only reduce our ecological footprint but also wish to set an example of sustainable practices in the business world.
By means of calculated technological progress and the goal of minimising our ecological footprint we endeavour to leave a permanent legacy of environmental responsibility. At a time at which responsible use of resources is of utmost importance we are proud of our pioneering role and prove that the commitment of one business can lead to significant change in terms of environmental protection.
We have reduced our paper consumption by around 70%.” fwp constantly endeavours to reduce its own consumption of resources.
Legal advice for sustainable projects
As a renowned law firm we specialise in providing legal advice to numerous national and international clients in all areas of sustainability. One important part is advising our clients on environmental law matters.
Our dedicated team around fwp partner Michael Hecht support a number of projects aiming at protecting the environment and promoting sustainability.
Representative of the many cases we handle in the area of sustainability we would like to present two exciting infrastructure projects on the next few pages.
As one of the most important European traffic portals in the Alps, the BrennerNordzulauf project is supported by fwp in the area of environmental law.
Michael Hecht & Josef Peer
SLINK aims to newly define commuting for around 6,000 persons and is supported by fwp’s legal advice.
Connecting the city to rural areas
A vision for a greener tomorrow
The SLINK project in Salzburg, formerly known as Salzburg.Regional.Stadt.Bahn, represents a significant leap in urban and rural transport. The project’s goal is to newly define commuting for around 6,000 persons and to connect the city to the surrounding regions by means of a state-of-the-art regional train system. Reduced dependence on cars not only eases road traffic but also significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions. The project not only promises a transport solution but also offers a plan for a sustainable future and is a shining example of innovative and continuing improvement of daily mobility.
The main goals of the S-LINK project are:
IMPROVING MOBILITY by offering a fast, efficient and comfortable means of public transport which competes with other means of transport.
REDUCING TRAFFIC CONGESTION by shifting a large part of daily commuters from the road to S-LINK, traffic in the city centre of Salzburg can be significantly reduced.
EXPANDING THE PUBLIC TRANSPORT NETWORK starting with an extension from Salzburg Main Station the project isdesigned to gradually expand the existing transportation network.
The vision of the Brenner-Nordzulauf project
Sustainable, transalpine transport
The Brenner Nordzulauf project is a shining example of the fight against climate change.”
Public transport, in particular trains, play a central role in the efforts for a sustainable future. They not only reduce traffic congestion but also greenhouse gas emissions to a great extent, which makes them an indispensable instrument in the fight against climate change.
The BrennerNordzulauf project is a commendable example of such efforts. It is considered one of the most important European traffic projects in the Alps and has the potential to change the type and manner in which goods are transported on the entire continent. In 2019 alone, 2.5 million HGV transports were handled via the Brenner motorway, which clearly shows the urgent need for an efficient and environmentally-friendly alternative.
The Brenner-Nordzulauf project with its manifold core goals is a shining example of innovative traffic solutions. On the one hand, the project aims at significantly easing road traffic by expanding the railway. In this way a considerable part of rail cargo will be shifted from the road directly onto the railway. On the other hand, the shift of traffic from road to railway has the advantage of reducing carbon emissions significantly. This shift will become an important factor in our fight against global warming.
The Brenner north bypass is not only about building tracks but also about setting the course for a traffic evolution where efficiency, environmental compatibility and sustainability in the area of the tran sit of goods are of prime concern.
supports the BrennerNordzulauf project in the area of
For more information see brennernordzulauf.eu
Be(e) sustainable
Our contribution to biodiversity
Biodiversity, a term derived from “biological diversity”, refers to the many forms of life on Earth, from the smallest micro-organisms to the largest eco-systems.
It is a measure for the richness and diversity of species in a certain region. Biodiversity is decisive for environmental protection since it plays a fundamental role in preserving the health and equilibrium of our planets’ ecosystems.
MIËLO
MIËLO is a unique biodiversity project in Krumau am Kamp in the Waldviertel region and at the Schweizerhof farm near Traismauer: 100% organic Austrian honey.
We support the preservation of biodiversity as a partner of MIËLO, a unique biodiversity project in Krumau am Kamp in the Waldviertel region and at Schweizerhof farm near Traismauer: MIËLO is 100% organic Austrian honey. By buying MIËLO honey we have been helping fund the project and keep agricultural land free from pesticides for more than four years now. The areas around the honey farm are intended for gradual transition from conventional to organic farming: no pesticides, no artificial fertilisers, biodiverse planting, providing a habitat for rare fauna and flora. The goal is to eliminate the use of pesticides in the catchment area of the MIËLO bees. For that purpose it is necessary to reimburse the farmers in the immediate vicinity for the minimum earnings they lose by refraining from using toxins. This will help all animals living on that land and makes the MIËLO honey so special.
A healthy habitat for the bees, no chemicals in the bee hives, no vaporisation of formic acid or oxalic acid, no medicines, no pesticides in the honey or in the hive’s pollen stores. It is a heartfelt wish of ours to promote biodiversity as well as sustainable and bee-friendly production of honey.
In addition, the team around MIËLO is also committed to protecting the bees. The varroa mite which, apart from pesticides, is the biggest threat to honey bees, is biologically controlled by MIËLO by the beekeeper heating up the bee and varroa colonies in the “varroa controller” to a temperature which is lethal to the varroa colony but harmless to the bee larvae.
And that is not all: fwp not only focuses on the environment but even goes a step further and donates a significant amount of MIËLO honey it buys to the associations Don Bosco Sozialwerk Austria and Diakonie Vienna.
Don Bosco Sozialwerk Austria was founded in 2022 with the aim of giving unaccompanied minor refugees shelter, education and a fair chance of integration, independent of their social, national or religious affiliation. Don Bosco Sozialwerk acts out of Christian motivation in the spirit of the youth saint Don Bosco, follows Christian values and advocates fair structures. We are very happy that we have been able to make a contribution to the integration of young people by our honey donations. In addition, fwp donates honey to Diakonie Austria, too. Diakonie is a combination of relief and social organisations of the Protestant Churches. Boasting around 600 stations Diakonie is one of Austria’s largest social organisations. We are grateful that we are able to make a contribution and help many people in our country who are in need by means of our donation.
Following the path of Social engagement. That’s law. (S)
Promoting diversity
Awards as an employer
Sports programme offers
Flexible working time models
Training and further education opportunities
Compatibility of family and career
Support for women in the legal profession
Responsible employer
As a responsible employer of approx. 140 employees we as a renowned Austrian law firm prioritise our employees satisfaction and individuality.
We know that a harmonious and motivated team is the basis for a business entity’s success. We are therefore particularly proud of our fwp.TEAM that shows unparalleled expertise, an outstanding sense of responsibility and extraordinary target-orientation every day.
fwp appreciates the outstanding excellent work our employees have provided for more than 25 years now and promotes their well-being. Our efforts in this regard focus on our colleagues’ initial and continuing training through a broad range of work-
transport.
We offer working time models tailored to individual needs.”
shops, courses and lectures. These offers are supplemented by health promotion measures and teambuilding activities. A carefully designed sports programme offers our employees numerous options for physical exercise, both individually and together through regular group activities. These initiatives not only contribute to one’s personal fitness but also form the basis for teambuilding through shared experiences which help forge bonds within our team.
Moreover, we strongly commend a harmonious balance between career ambitions and personal obligations. With this in mind we offer a number of different working time models tailored to individual needs and commend part-time work also in leading positions. In addition, we have recently set up our fwp.YOUNGSTERS workspace, which underlines our activities and endeavours in terms of family-friendly working conditions.
We also advocate diversity, which is represented by our fwp.TEAM, and appreciate the abundance of perspectives and insights it contributes to our firm. Another important point is therefore our collaboration with various cooperation partners aimed to particularly support and promote women in law.
fwp provides its employees with bicycles as a sustainable means of
Awards
BEST RECRUITER Gold seal and award winner
In the largest recruiting study carried out in the German-speaking area fwp again earned an award for its excellent performance. The study was about quality in recruiting with a focus on the career website, online job advertisements and candidate experience, all of which are areas in which fwp scored in all aspects. As the winner in the legal industry, a fourth place in the overall ranking of Austrian businesses, a place under the TOP 20 employers of the entire DACH region and the gold BEST RECRUITER seal we managed to live up to the excellent result of the last few years.
“We are very proud and extremely happy about those great awards. We constantly endeavour to make our high quality demands evident for candidates during the recruiting process. The past few years have shown the importance of enhancement in the area of recruiting. Quick responses to job applications, individual coaching on the candidate journey combined with authentic communication are decisive. The results honour our great efforts to offer the best recruiting experience and are also an incentive to continue optimising our processes to guarantee the best possible addressing of potential employees”, says Astrid Reitbauer, Head of HR at fwp.
We constantly en deavour to make our high quality demands evident for candidates during the recruiting process.”
Astrid Reitbauer, Head of HR
JUVE Top Employer 2023
In the JUVE edition that focused on “Career in Austria” fwp was ranked top employer among Austrian law firms once again. For a place among the TOP 20 the assessments of criteria such as the initial and continuing training programme or satisfaction and salary were decisive. JUVE particularly pointed out fwp’s in-service training initiatives, which also include leadership trainings specifically tailored for target groups. Apart from the opportunity to attend external congresses or networking events, JUVE highlighted the working time, which on average is less compared to other law firms.
© Christoph Heinzel
Career at fwp
In the centre of our actions is the central obligation to be a model employer, a place where the growth and competence of our fwp.TEAM are at the centre of our focus. Our commitment to furthering our employees is manifold and combines comprehensive trainings with the opportunity to directly apply the acquired skills.
In 2023 four of our associates were admitted to the bar.”
Our commitment to promoting talent has resulted in a number of internal courses and workshops which are carefully designed to teach our employees the skills they need for their personal and professional development. In this way we not only convey knowledge but also create an environment in which continuing training is commended and excellent expertise is the standard. Our employees are entrusted with independent, responsible tasks which have a direct or indirect effect on our clients, meaning that the wish for being solely responsible is deliberately supported. This balance of coaching by mentors from all levels and working independently allows the fwp.TEAM to flourish and significantly contribute to our law firm’s success.
We are particularly proud of the career perspectives we are able to offer our employees. In 2023 four of our associates were admitted to the bar. They used the opportunities offered by fwp as a stepping stone to become well-versed attorneys through the supportive environment.
Embracing Dual Roles
Work-family balance
We are fully convinced that career ambitions and family life should both be viable. As a responsible employer we promote such a balance through flexible working time models which are tailored to individual needs.
At fwp we create not only a workplace but a lively community.”
In order to accommodate the needs of each employee we currently have more than 50 different working time models in place. Our pioneering fwp.ANYWHERE concept also enables flexible work that is independent of time and place and gives our employees the chance to shape their career without neglecting their personal obligations.
In our quest for equity we have taken our project to foster a harmonious balance of work and family life one step further. Our new offices provide a workspace that includes a child-friendly play area. With this innovative approach we recognise that unexpected challenges may arise and that we are ready to provide solutions that allow parents to concentrate both on their duties and on their careers.
fwp thus provides not only a workplace but a lively community which appreciates individuality and promotes equity. Our commitment to diversity is a central value which is the motor that drives solutions for a more inclusive future. By owning diversity, promoting women in leading positions and fostering a work-family balance we not only shape but newly define the future.
Women at fwp
We are aware of the fact that a team that is characterised by diversity and a harmonious mix of men and women improves the decision-making process and pushes us ahead on our way towards our goals.
A balanced gender mix in a business entity is not only a question of fairness but also a decisive success factor.
We also know how important it is to enable women to advance to leading positions. We therefore endeavour to eliminate obstacles and ensure that women have equal opportunities to excel in all kinds of occupations.
While we embrace diversity as a whole we are also aware of the necessity for us to deal with the special challenges facing women in the legal field. We have taken proactive steps to support and empower women by maintaining partnerships with associations such as the “Paragraphinnen” or “Women in Law”, which advocate women in legal professions. Our cooperation with those initiatives not only raises awareness of the significance of equality of women and men in the field of law but also actively offers women the opportunity to network at workshops, conferences or meetings.
Four women, four success stories
Like many other sectors the legal industry is also struggling with gender gaps. It is therefore of decisive importance to deal with the obstacles women face and to offer long-term solutions for a future of equal opportunities.
On the following pages four female employees will talk about their experiences at fwp. In an open conversation they will highlight the special challenges women face in the legal industry and talk about the different proactive measures taken by fwp to achieve equity.
Monika Sturm
Christina Klapf
Katharina Dobkiewicz
Yoanna Eishold
is a partner at fwp and specialises in labour and employment law. She joined fwp in 2017 and has a 13yearold daughter.
What are the challenges facing women in law firms?
Monika Sturm: Sadly the legal profession is still very heavily dominated by men but fortunately more and more women decide to make a career in law. In addition, juggling childcare and career is still an issue - luckily also here a lot of progress has been made in recent years.
Katharina Dobkiewicz: I can only agree. Aligning the wish to start a family with professional goals is certainly one of the biggest challenges.
Yoanna Eishold: It feels like women have more social duties in a family and also in society or at least they claim to have them. In my view, juggling all of those obligations and the very demanding job of an attorney (not only in terms of time) is the biggest challenge.
Christina Klapf: In many law firms women are under-represented, in particular in higher positions. Women often face the challenge of achieving equality and getting appreciation.
What is it that you appreciate about fwp as your employer? What is it that makes fwp stand out?
Yoanna Eishold: fwp gave me the time to grow at my own speed. fwp offers the flexibility to give all employees opportunities for their individual development. I appreciate this very much because every person is different and such diversity can often be an advantage among colleagues.
Katharina Dobkiewicz: fwp offers excellent training opportunities and promotes its employees through various internal and external initial and continuing trainings. In addition, I very much appreciate that the different needs are accommodated through different working time models.
Christina Klapf: Women and men are not treated differently; all employees are given the same opportunity. Moreover, flexible working options are offered which enable a better work-life-balance. In addition, fwp offers many continuing training opportunities for professional development.
How do you balance your family and working life and how does fwp support you?
Monika Sturm: fwp knows that all employees are an essential part of the company’s success and that it needs a reliable and motivated team to make all that happen. Therefore, fwp offers a lot of support such as flexible working time models, remote working, feedback meetings before returning to the workplace, etc. In addition, a new, child-friendly workspace including a play area has recently been set up, which allows us to take our children along to the office. My daughter is 13 years old; therefore it is of course
a little bit easier now that I do not always need someone to look after her.
Katharina Dobkiewicz: To be honest, sometimes it works better and sometimes it is harder but fwp offers all employees different working time models and is responsive to each individual. Moreover, fwp uses the fwp.ANYWHERE approach which enables location-independent working, which is also lived by fwp.
In what way has fwp supported your personal development and your career advancements?
Christina Klapf: They provided initial and continuing training, including programmes specifically targeted to leadership development. And the fact that all partners are always there to provide support and advice also helps a lot. I also appreciate that employees are given a chance to choose the areas and focuses on which they wish to concentrate more.
Monika Sturm
Katharina Dobkiewicz
As an attorney Katharina Dobkiewicz advises national and international clients in the areas of Dispute Resolution and Restructuring & Insolvency. She became a mother in 2022.
Christoph Heinzel
Yoanna Eishold: fwp offers a lot of development opportunities: starting from the continuing professional development programmes, via the opportunities to obtain language skills, up to the different coaching offers for personal development (leadership style, stress management, personal appearance, etc.). These help you get to know yourself better and thus improve in your daily work, at least in my case.
What does equality mean to you and how is it lived at fwp?
Monika Sturm: For me equality means that women have the same career advancement opportunities and are offered the same training as men. The decisive factor is that each and everyone is granted equal access to important resources, trainings and opportunities for con-
tinuing professional development as well as fair pay, independent of their gender. fwp gives all employees the same chance of building a career.
Katharina Dobkiewicz: To achieve equality, all employees must be offered the same career opportunities. At fwp this is definitely the case.
Yoanna Eishold: Different genders, cultures and the like should be seen as a benefit for the purpose of diversification. For there may be different solutions to a problem; the different solution approaches will depend on the level of experience. fwp has understood this and benefits from the advantages of a diverse team.
Christina Klapf: That everyone, whether man or woman, has the same career opportunities and that the salary is based on performance and not on the gender. fwp lives both.
What advice would you give young women lawyers who wish to pursue a career in a law firm?
Monika Sturm: In the last few years law firms have undergone a lot of changes in terms of work-life balance, balancing your career and your family life, etc. It is therefore worth considering the actual opportunities and offers of law firms and not being deterred by any scare stories. As always in life, you have to make your own experiences and see for yourself.
Christina Klapf: It is definitely important to establish professional contacts at an early stage, be it through internships, at events or through associations of lawyers. A strong network can help build a career. You should also trust your own abilities and not get discouraged by gender stereotypes or prejudices.
Yoanna Eishold: Especially in the first few months endurance is definitely required. And you must not lose sight of your goals.
Katharina Dobkiewicz: It is essential to set yourself clearly defined goals and to pursue them stringently. It has always been important to me to work for a law firm that attaches great importance to training young lawyers.
Yoanna Eishold has worked for fwp since 2015 and has meanwhile been admitted to the bar. She specialises in the Family Offices & Wealth Management sector.
Christina Klapf was admitted to the Austrian bar in 2023 as an fwp attorney. Her field of expertise is public business law with a focus on the circular economy.
fwp International Women’s Day
The International Women’s Day is not only a historical event but also a symbol of the global fight for gender equality. In March 1911 the International Women’s Day was celebrated in several European countries for the first time. Since then it has helped to raise awareness of women’s rights and to celebrate the progress made in terms of equal opportunities.
Also, in 2024 fwp took the International Women’s Day as an additional opportunity to draw attention to the challenges that women currently face, especially women in law. These include topics such as unequal representation of women in leading positions. For in the legal industry, in particular in law firms, women are still under-represented from a certain career level upwards. It is therefore even more important that we step up our efforts to support women and highlight the vital significance of gender equality. As a responsible law firm equal opportunities are a prime concern of ours. We aim at creating a fair working environment where women have the same prospects and opportunities as their male colleagues.
With this goal in mind we organised the first fwp International Women’s Day on 8 March 2024. Under the motto of “Empowerment of Women in Law” fwp addressed the vital significance of gender equality in the legal industry and invited women lawyers to an inspiring professional exchange. At the same time the event was intended to promote open discussion, which contributes to women in law receiving the recognition they deserve. The event programme offered some 50 attendees a variety of speeches, workshops, readings and talks with top-class speakers from different fields, who addressed all facets of equality.
Eva Landrichtinger during her keynote speech on the topic of equity in the Austrian labour market
The keynote speech was held by Eva Landrichtinger, Secretary General at the Federal Ministry for Labour and Economy. The law graduate advocates a fair labour market. Her speech on the topic of inclusion and diversity in the labour market provided valuable insights and incentives for the audience. Afterwards, the event offered an eclectic mix of workshops, readings and talks.
Julia Fodor, who started her impressive career as a blogger and has meanwhile successfully established several businesses, shared her personal strategies and experiences gained during the last few years in her inspiring speech on “how to be unstoppable” and provided practical tips on how to enhance your endurance and resilience.
In her workshop “the time is now” Wernetta Eberhardt, lawyer, leadership coach and trainer for personality and team development, explained how to create and live a fulfilling professional life with shaping power and self-efficacy.
The workshop of Vera Steinhäuser, certified business coach specialising in female empowerment, illustrated once more why the current movement is important and how women can make a valuable contribution.
fwp partner Monika Sturm addressed the manifold career opportunities at law firms in her talk and how she asserted herself in the world of attorneys in the last few years.
Attendees also had the opportunity to listen to Christl Clear. Reading from her book entitled “Let me be Christl Clear” the influencer and businesswoman from Vienna inspired her audience with clear words and her congenial nature. She specifically addressed the position of women in the world of work and showed ways how women can use their position in society to their advantage.
Puls 4 presenter Verena Schneider topped the programme off with her talk on self-esteem and how to deal with criticism constructively. Afterwards the attendees of the fwp International Women’s Day had an opportunity to network during an informal get-together.
The day was considered a total success by the attendees and left a lasting impression as an inspiring event around the International Women’s Day. The fwp International Women’s Day was not only an inspiring event but also an excellent example of our commitment in the area of corporate social responsibility. By organising the event fwp set a clear example of promoting equal opportunities for women, in particular in the field of law. Events like the fwp International Women’s Day are of decisive significance. They contribute to raising awareness of the necessity of equity and support specific measures for female empowerment. Our initiatives actively contribute to creating a fairer working world.
The speakers at the fwp International Women’s Day: Wernetta Eberhardt, Verena Schneider, Christl Clear, Vera Steinhäuser und Julia Fodor (f.l.t.r.)
Success through a heterogeneous team
We at fwp are aware of the undisputable significance of diversity in our team. As an employer we make sure that our team members embrace a broad spectrum of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences. We are fully convinced that a diverse team is a source of innovation that fosters creativity and openness.
DEI
DEI stands for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. It is a comprehensive approach aimed at creating an environment where all people, in particular those who have been under-represented or discriminated against in the past, are represented and involved, and have equal opportunities.
Diversity
We have defined specific internal requirements that foster diversity as early as in the recruiting process.”
We are determined to treat each employee as a valuable part of our team, independent of factors such as gender, age, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, culture, language, income or religious belief. In our view, each and everyone has a set of unique strengths, which together contribute to our success. For that reason we are proud to be an employer that offers equal opportunities and fosters an integrative environment where everyone can flourish.
We therefore support diversity in all areas. We have defined specific internal requirements that foster diversity as early as in the recruiting process. Apart from numerous training measures, such as workshops on “unconscious bias” or “diversity, equity and inclusion”, which we offer our colleagues, we especially consider ethical principles when we select our partners to drive equity and diversity also at a corporate level.
means the diversity of all human features such as gender, ethnic origin, age, religion, sexual orientation, physical or mental impairment, social status and education.
Equity
means that everyone, irrespective of their individual features, has equal opportunities.
Inclusion
means that all people are actively included, welcome and feel that they belong.
Cultivating brilliance
The decisive role of HR development
We are aware that we need a culture of continuous development. As a renowned employer we see it as our duty to create an environment that fosters and supports constant professional, technological and personal development.
We actively invest in the continuing training of our team members.”
That is all the more evident in the field of law, where it is of utmost importance to keep yourself informed about amendments to laws, recent court decisions and new sets of rules. It is therefore clear to us that we must keep our knowledge up to date to advise our clients in the best possible manner. Our efforts to follow this principle are shown in our eclectic approach to fostering initial and continuing professional development. The centre of our efforts is the carefully designed fwp.KNOWLEDGE programme that includes target group-specific trainings, e.g. Legal Essentials or Leadership Essentials, or our Know-How Lunch meetings. At those events internal and external speakers talk about recent developments in the legal sector.
In addition, our continuing development project is complemented at a personal level by our broad soft skill training programme. In a constant exchange with our external trainers, who possess top qualifications in their relevant fields, we develop innovative and future-oriented trainings and practice-oriented workshops.
Quite some time ago we at fwp recognised that developing competences is driven more than ever by the knowledge and correct use of technological tools around AI. Accordingly, we have moved our law firm to a top level by integrating such tools and up-to-date trainings.
We also know that learning does not stop at our own four walls. Therefore we actively invest in the continuing training of our team members by paying the costs of seminars, supporting attendance of external conferences and facilitating participation in specialised workshops. This is a way to facilitate the exchange that forms the basis for new, innovative solutions.
By using all of those resources we make sure that our team members are familiar with recent trends and emerging problems and that they are always one step ahead.
Digital KnowHow Lunch Meeting
Teamwork makes the dream work
The success of a team is measured by its unity. We are aware that the strength of a team not only comes from individual abilities but also in the unity of its members.
We are fully convinced that triumphs are the better the more they are shared and that a team can only reach the apex of its performance if unity and mutual trust are its common basis.
As a responsible employer fostering real teamwork is a cornerstone of our values. We know that a team that works as a closed unit will not only be more productive but also more resilient when it comes to coping with challenges. We have therefore set ourselves the target to create an environment where teambuilding is a top priority.
We have come up with various initiatives to strengthen the personal relationships and to reinforce the unity of our team. Regular after-work events and teambuilding measures offer an informal opportunity where colleagues can interact beyond their work. By maintaining contacts we create space for joint experiences and personal growth.
In addition, joint sporting activities, be they weekly group runs with our running coach or joint workouts on bikes, foster physical well-being and at the same time proactively contribute to a WE feeling. The idea that our collective strength amounts to more than our individual abilities makes our fwp.TEAM even stronger.
Moreover, we believe in the power of joint experiences that create permanent bonds. Outings together, such as our fwp getaway skiing weekend in the Austrian mountains, offer our employees an optimal opportunity to discover new facets in their colleagues. These events strengthen mutual trust.
fwp soccer team
Health measures
Health is a valuable asset which allows us to be at our best in our jobs and private lives. We consider this relevant and we regard our employees’ well-being to be of utmost importance.
As a responsible employer of approx. 140 employees we have developed a culture that supports health and well-being. Our commitment is shown through a number of preventive measures designed to ensure the physical and mental well-being of our team. Regular health initiatives to promote physical and mental well-being are a fixed part of our initiatives.
One example showing that we care for the health of our employees is our company physician who provides comprehensive medical support. He administers vaccines, carries out pulmonary function tests, monitors blood pressure and carries out hearing tests. These proactive measures underline our conviction that, as well as promoting good health, preventive medicine is essential for our employees as well.
We know that an active way of life is the key to holistic health.”
Since we know that an active way of living is the key to holistic health we have developed a comprehensive range of sporting activities. From invigorating run sessions led by a professional coach through joint spinning sessions to calm yoga flows on our terrace offering a view of Vienna we offer a broad range of activities. The possibilities offered to our employees also extend to the individual level, with a selection of sports being easily accessible to all our employees.
fwp considers health to be an essential pillar of success. Through preventive measures, dedicated healthcare and a broad spectrum of sporting activities we not only foster our employees’ well-being but also advocate the same proactively.
Social commitment
In a world where togetherness is in full focus, social commitment becomes a supporting pillar that shapes our society. We at fwp take our responsibility as an employer beyond our daily work and we know how important it is to give something back, both in terms of business and charity.
Recognising the deep influence of art on our culture and society we are proud to support artistic aspirations by fostering creativity and contributing to cultural enrichment.
In addition, our social commitment also extends to charitable activities. We are driven by the conviction that social welfare is a shared responsibility. By participating in charitable projects we want to noticeably improve the lives of those who need it most. Be it through donations, social volunteering or other forms of active participation, we actively contribute to making the world a fairer and more compassionate place.
Charity Christmas campaign
We have committed ourselves to supporting at least one charitable activity a year. The inspiring example of our social commitment in 2023 was the joint Christmas Charity campaign together with the Red Cross. The fwp.TEAM took part by giving Christmas presents to children in need in Austria. Presents for children of different age groups were organised together and wrapped with love in a Christmasy setting. By closely cooperating with the Red Cross we managed to make sure that children from socially deprived families found Christmas presents under their trees last year. This unprecedented campaign went beyond the mere act of giving. The presents, such as books or toys, are often more than only tangible objects for those receiving them and a symbol of love of their neighbours.
Social commitment like this is of prime concern to us because we are fully convinced that our society’s well-being, especially that of our children, is a shared responsibility. The values of social commitment and solidarity are thus deeply embedded in our corporate culture as a
law firm. In addition, social commitment is also an important source of inspiration and motivation for our employees. The charity project was not only a possibility for us to do something good as a community but also strengthened the sense of unity and team spirit within the fwp. TEAM. Our joint efforts, starting from considerately choosing presents up to the caringly designed gift wrappings, fostered respectful interaction as well as empathy, compassion and social responsibility.
All in all, the charity campaign was a wonderful opportunity to live our values and make a valuable contribution to society. It also reminded us of how important it is to help one another and to be there for those who urgently need help. It showed us that even the smallest of gestures can make a big difference in the life of another human being.
Our motivation to commit ourselves to social volunteering in the future is, on the one hand, to help others and, on the other hand, to foster a culture of giving and solidarity and be a positive example.
Christmas Charity Campaign
fwp.TEAM giving Christmas presents to children in need in Austria
Our contribution to art
As a renowned law firm we are proud to organise the annual fwp kunstakt event. For this purpose we have cooperated with the esteemed Vienna Academy of Fine Arts for more than two decades and offer aspiring artists a platform where they can present their works in our offices and offer them for sale. This unique initiative is proof of our constant endeavours to support and foster the art scene in Austria.
The most recent kunstakt took place on 23 November 2023. This lively gathering brought together around 200 guests in our offices where art enthusiasts and our clients alike enjoyed the pleasant ambience. Accompanied by delicious food and drinks the artists talked with the guests and gave insights into their creative processes and the stories behind their masterpieces.
Every year we are happy to welcome new talents of the Academy of Fine Arts, who exhibit their inspiring works in the different artistic forms of expression in our offices. The kunstakt is our example of active support of young artists and of contributing to the overall cultural image of our country.
The fwp kunstakt is not only a celebration of art but also of togetherness, creativity and cooperation. Our long-term, permanent partnership with the Academy of Fine Arts underlines our deeply anchored commitment to supporting emerging artists and to offering them a platform in the Austrian art scene.
24/kunstakt
The art project of fwp and the Vienna Academy of Fine Arts.
Following the path of good governance. That’s law. (G)
Ecological and social responsibility
Responsible corporate governance
Inclusion of stakeholders Sustainable practices
Transparency
Ethical governance
In the context of ESG considerations (Environmental, Social and Governance) “G” stands for governance and constitutes the cornerstone of sustainable business practices. Governance comprises the framework and practices by means of which a business entity is managed and controlled to warrant accountability, transparency and ethical decision-making.
The significance of governance within ESG cannot be valued highly enough. It serves as the compass that shows businesses how to act responsibly, with governance structures, ethical standards and compliance protocols being aligned in order to minimise risks and create longterm value. Effective governance ensures that ecological and social matters are not only an empty confession but are deeply rooted in the foundations of a business entity.
ESG governance basically constitutes the cornerstone of a harmonious balance between profit, people and the planet. It recognises that the task of businesses is not only to create values but that such values have to be achieved in an ethical and responsible manner and in line with global welfare.
Responsible corporate governance
Commitment to excellence
Responsible corporate governance constitutes the cornerstone of sustainable business practices. It includes a number of principles and values that guide the decision-making processes of a business entity and ensure that actions are transparent, ethically correct and in the best interest of all interest groups.
Ethical governance
Responsible governance starts at the top. Our partners endeavour to meet the highest ethical standards in all decision-making processes. This also means that we avoid conflicts of interest and make decisions where the well-being of our employees is in the foreground.
Sustainable practices
Ecological and social responsibility are integral parts of our corporate governance philosophy. We undertake to reduce our ecological footprint, to promote diversity and integration, and to make a positive contribution for society.
Our employees’ wellbeing
Our employees are the basis of our success. We invest in their development, offer adequate pay and foster a culture of respect.
Inclusion of stakeholders
As a well-established legal partner in all areas of business law responsible business practices are part of our identity. Our partners are aware of their central role in leading and supervising our dedicated employees and promote a culture of ethical governance, transparency and responsibility while at the same time fulfilling confidential duties with utmost care. We actively prove that obligation in different ways.
Our obligations
Transparency
We are convinced that transparency is the basis for responsible corporate governance. By means of regular and open reporting we make available comprehensive and detailed information about our services, our risk management and our efforts in terms of sustainability. This helps clients to make well-founded decisions and to hold us accountable.
We engage in an active exchange with our stakeholders, including clients, employees and suppliers, to understand their needs and concerns. This dialogue is taken into consideration when we make decisions and helps us establish relationships that benefit both sides.
In summary it can be said that responsible corporate governance is no optional extra but an integral part of our business. We undertake to manage our business with integrity, transparency and responsibility vis-à-vis all our stakeholders. We believe that by adhering to those principles we are able to contribute to shaping a more ethical and more sustainable business environment which is beneficial to building trust and long-term success for all involved.
Responsible corporate governance is an integral part of our firm.”
Stakeholders
We see ourselves not only as legal advisors but also as partners and project managers who support their clients in coping with complex legal, strategic and business challenges. In our work we make use of our comprehensive knowledge of the different industries to offer bespoke solutions.
Our approach includes careful risk assessment and analysis and the application of precautionary principles when providing services for our clients. In the past our focus was on immediate economic and technological risks. However, our vision is to expand those methods to the ecological and social aspects of our actions and to promote harmonisation wherever possible. This also includes the introduction of risk assessment and precautionary strategies in those areas.
Our commitment to social progress, however, is not limited to our clients. We also actively contribute to social progress by maintaining manifold relationships within the broad spectrum of our business activities.
Our stakeholders
Stakeholders play a decisive role in shaping an organisation’s development. Their different interests, expectations and contributions offer a holistic perspective that steers decision-making processes, drives innovations and ensures responsibility.
Stakeholders
The inclusion and satisfaction of the stakeholders fosters a harmonious ecosystem in which mutual benefits arise and which enables the organisation to flourish in a dynamic and connected world.
Stakeholders therefore form a complex network of individuals, groups and organisations that have a legitimate interest in the results and activities of an organisation. In a law firm that network turns out to be particularly complex because of the intricacy of legal practice. This is why the most important stakeholders are presented below, whose activities overlap with those of a law firm.
Integration and satisfaction of the stakeholders fosters a harmonious ecosystem.”
Clients
The clients, who can be seen as the cornerstone of a law firm’s existence, entrust the law firm with their legal affairs and expect competent advice and solutions. The image, growth and success of a law firm are inseparably connected with its clients’ satisfaction.
Employees
They are the heart and soul of a law firm and provide legal expertise, advice and counselling. Their knowledge and commitment have an influence on the quality of the services and a direct and an indirect impact on the reputation of the law firm in the legal community and on the clients’ satisfaction.
Students and graduates
Law firms also support young talent in the field of law by collaborating with students and graduates. By offering internships, mentoring programmes and workshops law firms shape the future legal landscape by shaping the careers of emerging legal brains.
Legislator and courts
There is a close relation between law firms and the legislative bodies which create the legal framework. Also the courts, where legal disputes are fought and won, maintain a symbiotic relation with law firms.
Suppliers and service providers
Behind the scenes suppliers and service providers contribute to a business entity’s success.
Responsible Business Practices
As a leading player in the field of business law we know that the “G” in ESG is of immense importance when it comes to shaping responsible business practices. In the following we describe the way in which we integrate the governance principles seamlessly into our business activities and thus warrant transparency.
Our principles
Leadership qualities and ethical standards
Maintaining strong leadership and ethical standards is of utmost importance. We establish clear codes of conduct and ethical guidelines, which regulate our interactions with customers, colleagues and stakeholders. By setting an example of integrity from the top we create a culture that appreciates ethical decisions.
Transparency in reporting
Managing conflicts of interest
We have developed clear protocols on how to deal with conflicts of interest and are thus able to ensure that our clients’ interests have top priority while safeguarding transparency and avoiding avoidable situations at the same time.
Ecological and social responsibility
The integration of governance principles underlines our enthusiasm for ethical conduct, transparency and long-term sustainability. By owning those principles we not only improve our reputation as a responsible law firm but also contribute to a business landscape which fosters integrity and responsibility.
Open and honest reporting mechanisms are the key to corporate governance. We provide transparent reports and disclose relevant ESG-related information to demonstrate our commitment to responsible business activities.
Risk management
Solid governance also means identifying and addressing potential risks. We have established a proactive risk assessment procedure to minimise legal, reputational and operational risks and to protect our clients’ and our own reputation in this way.
Inclusion of interest groups
Inclusion of all parties involved is at the core of governance. Regular exchange with clients, employees and other stakeholders allows us to obtain insights, eliminate concerns and align our actions with expectations.
Including environmental and social aspects in our decision-making process is an expression of a comprehensive governance approach. Considering topics such as diversity and integration, environmental impacts and social commitment reflects our commitment to overall responsibility.
Measuring and improving performance
The regular assessment of our governance practices allows us to identify areas worth improving and to adapt to developing standards and best practices of our industry.
Our values
Target orientation drives our success.”
Competence
is the foundation based on the expertise of the best brains, comprehensive experience and constant learning. Competence in the field of law relates to the comprehensive knowledge, skills and expertise lawyers possess to effectively represent their clients, interpret the law and deal with complex legal matters. Our employees’ competence is of utmost importance because it ensures that we can offer our clients best possible legal advice.
Team spirit
Our foundation not only comprises comprehensive legal expertise but also our corporate values, which include competence, team spirit and determination. Guided by responsibility, appreciation and visions these values also shape our relationships with our stakeholders. These values are reflected in our daily work and embody the essence of our identity as one of the leading business law firms in Austria.
The fwp.TEAM embodies keen perception and enjoyment of work. Solution-oriented teamwork and addressing our clients’ legal challenges are our greatest asset. Working on difficult, fascinating and often large and complex cases requires significant commitment and at the same time offers the prospect of advising Austrian and international clients using a high level of expertise and of enabling growth potential through the multitude of tasks. Our values and our work ethics lay the foundation for our reputation of being a reliable and competent partner for our clients.
is the collective enthusiasm, collaboration and unity within a group that works together to achieve a common goal. Team spirit unites and enables efficient action in quick solution scenarios and is important because it fosters a positive working environment, improves collaboration and maximises productivity by allowing individual to use their different skills and strengths to achieve common goals effectively.
Target orientation
drives our success and leads as towards optimal solutions for our clients through speed, precision and efficiency. It is of decisive importance because is provides a roadmap for approaches and ensure that the individual efforts are in line with the company’s goals and contribute to our overall success.
Conclusion and objective
For fwp sustainability is not only a word but a fundamental principle that defines our actions and decisions. We are aware of the great significance of sustainable actions not only for our company but also for society and the environment. We are therefore determined to promote sustainability in all aspects of our work.
Through a number of dedicated initiatives we work on setting an example for other businesses which they can follow. Our multiple projects cover the entire spectrum of environmental, social and governance considerations (ESG).
In the area of environmental protection we continuously assess and finetune our internal processes and look for possibilities to minimise our ecological footprint. The focus of our efforts is on resource management which ensures that we will use the means available in an optimal way and at the same time to minimise waste. We do not limit our activities to internal measures but also actively support projects that are compatible with the environment. By funding environmentally-friendly projects like MIËLO we can play a role in accelerating changes to the better.
We do not limit our activities to internal measures but also actively support projects that are compatible with the environment.”
Social responsibility is a cornerstone of our corporate culture. As an employer we know that the well-being of our team directly contributes to our overall success. Our responsibility, however, goes beyond the boundaries of our law office. The cooperation with the Austrian association in support of the blind and visually impaired (Hilfsgemeinschaft für Blinde und Sehschwache) is an expression of our commitment to equity and equality. In addition, our continuous commitment to social volunteering and in the area of art shows our determination to give something back to society.
Transparency and accountability are fundamental elements of our corporate governance. We adhere to the highest standards to foster a culture of trust and reliability with our stakeholders. Our efforts to be a reliable partner are reflected in our open dialogue that ensures that our decisions will reflect their interests as well.
We are proud of our achievements but also know that walking the path towards sustainability is an ongoing process. We remain attentive and always look for new ways to remain innovative, collaborate and make a meaningful contribution to the world around us.
Our goals
Defining sustainable goals for a business entity is of decisive importance because it steers activities towards the longterm well-being of our planet, society and the business. By defining clear sustainability goals we define a roadmap for responsible growth that minimises negative impacts and maximises positive contributions. We are determined to achieve those goals and use our resources, innovations and determination to push ahead meaningful changes.
The goals we want to achieve by 2028
As a responsible firm committed to sustainability we have chosen an ambitious course for our future. Nonetheless, we know that there is also room for improvement. We will therefore commence a comprehensive analysis of how we use resources to identify areas for more sustainability.
This analysis will serve as the basis for our strategy and guide us towards our goal of reducing energy consumption by another 35% by 2028. In the area of social responsibility we are committed to promoting diversity and equity in our team. We have set us the goal to increase the share of women by 20% and will target our efforts to promote more women to leading positions. This goal requires strategic planning and the implementation of innovative concepts to complement our ongoing initiatives.
In addition, we are determined to comply with all compliance standards and regulatory requirements and to use our resources and exercise due care to ensure that our work will meet the highest ethical and legal standards.
However, our vision goes far beyond those changes. Through our unrelenting commitment to shaping a sustainable landscape in the field of law we want to expand our pioneering role as a future-oriented law firm. It is our goal to be a lighthouse for other businesses and to demonstrate the positive effects of sustainable management practices.
It is our goal to be a lighthouse for other businesses.”
Our goals until 2028
Reducing energy consumption by another 35%
— Promoting diversity and equity in our team
Increasing the share of women by 20%
Complying with all compliance standards and regulatory requirements
Ensuring that our activities meet the highest ethical and legal standards
Expanding our pioneering role as a future-oriented law firm
Legal information
We would like to thank all colleagues and all others involved in the preparation of this Sustainability Report.
Editor and coordinator: Fellner Wratzfeld & Partner Rechtsanwälte Gesellschaft m.b.H. Schottenring 12, 1010 Vienna www.fwp.at
All rights reserved.
Copyright @ 2024 by Fellner Wratzfeld & Partner
Edited by: Tamara Toller, Katrin Fischer
Graphic design & illustrations: YAY creative GmbH www.yaycreative.at
