Putting the B Corp into business

In a first of its kind event in Exeter, leading South West law firm Stephens Scown LLP and tech experts Optimising IT joined forces to host a B CorporationTM event at the heart of the city.

Both businesses were keen to share their commitment towards fostering a sustainable and responsible business community in Exeter.

Stephens Scown became the first B Corp TM Certified law firm in the South West in January 2023. They have been leading the way since 2016 with the launch of the Firm’s Giving Back programme, which empowers employees to do good through four key pillars of volunteering, fundraising, pro bono work and reducing the business’ environmental impact.

Optimising IT announced their B Corporation TM Certification in March 2023 when they met rigorous social and environmental standards which represent their commitment to goals outside of shareholder profit.

Their joint event, held at Stephens Scown’s Exeter office, welcomed a range of businesses from the local area, from established B Corporations TM to those eager to embrace this transformative approach.

Attendees heard from Verity Slater, Giving Back partner at Stephens Scown and a driving force of the Firm’s B Corp TM Certification process and Todd Gifford, Managing Director and advocate of the B Corporation TM values of Optimising IT.

Enabling invaluable networking opportunities, the event provided the chance for businesses to create connections and explore potential collaborations.

Stephens Scown’s Managing Partner, Richard Baker, said: “As the first large law firm in the UK to become employee-owned, we have built a dynamic and innovative business dedicated to delivering for our clients and providing a rewarding and supportive workplace.”  

Todd Gifford, Managing Director at Optimising IT added: “For us, gaining B Corp Certification was a natural step to take as we are already operating in a sustainable and people-led way, whilst providing services to other B CorpTM organisations.”