RDJ are first Irish law firm to achieve B Corp

Cork-based law firm, RDJ, has officially become the first Irish law firm to be a certified B corporation.

With offices in Cork, Dublin, and Galway, RDJ has been recognised globally as a business that meets high standards of social and environmental impact.

RDJ’s certification follows a rigorous 18-month-long assessment, with key initiatives undertaken in recent years including increasing female representation to 35% in senior management and transitioning to 100% renewable electricity across all offices. The firm is also set to reduce its carbon footprint by 5% annually and is advancing its digital transformation, targeting fully digital operations by 2030.

“We were delighted to achieve B Corp Certification, which is another step evidencing our commitment to building a law firm that leads with purpose,” RDJ managing partner, Jamie Olden said. “Our people and clients are at the heart of this — we are grateful to work alongside forward-thinking businesses that share our vision, and we have 290 people who want to continue to make a meaningful impact where possible.

“This certification strengthens our dedication to driving positive change and holding ourselves accountable to the highest standards of transparency, social impact, and environmental responsibility.

“We will also continue to work closely with our clients, advising on ESG [environmental, social, and governance] regulations and solidifying our position as a strategic partner in the green transition.”

RDJ provides diversity scholarship and placement programmes at University College Cork and University of Galway, empowering law students from underrepresented backgrounds to build successful careers in the legal sector. The firm has also enhanced workplace policies, introducing mental health initiatives, flexible work options, and progressive family-friendly policies, including paid leave around surrogacy, early-stage pregnancy loss, and fertility treatment.

The firm also has a mental health and wellbeing initiative in collaboration with the Law Society of Ireland, addressing the challenges faced by legal professionals.

“We see this as the end of the beginning of our sustainability journey,” Chief operations officer at RDJ, Tom Noonan said. “B Corp has provided us with a valuable framework to measure our impact, refine our sustainability strategy, and drive continuous improvements. From reducing our carbon footprint to enhancing employee engagement and supporting clients during their ESG transition, this is an opportunity for us to lead by example.

“We are committed to maintaining this momentum and ensuring that every step forward delivers tangible benefits for our people, our clients, and the communities we serve.”