B&M Global Services Manila (GSM), the pioneering services center of Baker McKenzie, is celebrating its 25th anniversary, marking a quarter-century of innovation and growth in law firm shared services.
Founded in 2000 as a small word-processing unit for Baker McKenzie’s Asia Pacific offices, GSM has grown into a global business services center with over 1,000 professionals. Today, it provides end-to-end support services—from finance and billing to document management, marketing, IT, and talent development—serving more than 70 offices across 40+ locations. GSM’s centralized model enables Baker McKenzie to efficiently manage large-scale trademark portfolios in over 200 jurisdictions.
The anniversary celebration, themed “Creating Value. Amplifying Impact,” underscores GSM’s role in delivering winning solutions for Baker McKenzie and its clients while driving positive change in the industry and local communities.
From Local Pioneer to Global Model
GSM’s operating model, first introduced in Manila, has since been replicated in Baker McKenzie’s other centers in Belfast, Buenos Aires, and Tampa. “Reflecting on our journey these past 25 years, it is evident that our people’s steadfast commitment to the values of trust, agility, and passion has enabled GSM to consistently drive strong value for the business, our people and communities,” said Lorie Barredo, GSM Executive Director.
Kate Stonestreet, Baker McKenzie Global Chief Operating Officer, added: “For 25 years, GSM has strengthened our processes and technology to support client service. I’m confident the team will continue to innovate and make an even greater impact in the years ahead."
Commitment to People and Communities
GSM has earned recognition as one of Asia’s Best Companies to Work for by HR Asia for five consecutive years. In 2025, it received two special awards: Tech Empowerment for leveraging technology to boost productivity and Sustainable Workplace for promoting environmental stewardship. The company also holds a Great Place to Work certification for two years running.
Beyond the workplace, GSM actively supports local communities through initiatives such as Brigada Eskwela, clean water programs with Waves for Water Philippines, and fundraising for animal rescue group Pawssion Project. It also champions inclusion, diversity and equity through programs for women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and persons with disabilities and is a member of Philippine Financial and Inter-Industry Pride and the Philippine Business and Disability Network.
Shaping the Future
As a founding member of the Global In-House Center Council Philippines and an active participant in industry associations, GSM continues to help shape the shared services landscape in the country. Its best practices remain central to Baker McKenzie’s global operations strategy.
"The future demands bold action. GSM will keep pushing boundaries—through innovation, sustainability, and people empowerment—to deliver lasting impact for all its stakeholders," Barredo added.