Led by Sonia Taylor, Sonder Consultants
Candidate: Senior Associate
Practice Area: Private Equity / M&A
Firm: US Firm
Location: Singapore
In June 2025, Sonia Taylor facilitated the lateral move of a UK-qualified Senior Associate from one leading international law firm in Singapore to another. Originally from the UK and now based in Singapore, the candidate had been enjoying life in the region but felt it was the right time to explore opportunities that better aligned with her long-term career plans.
Background
The candidate had followed a partner from a Magic Circle firm to her current position, where she developed a strong transactional practice in the Private Equity and M&A space. While settled and performing well, she was seeking clearer progression and a team structure more suited to her aspirations.
Though not actively looking, she had been connected to Sonder Consultants for some time and was familiar with our salary insights and legal market updates. When Sonia reached out directly, the timing was right for a confidential discussion.
The Process
There were no active openings that matched her profile, but Sonia took a proactive approach, introducing her speculatively to a select group of firms known to have long-term interest in senior private equity talent across Asia. Three firms responded. Two entered into early-stage discussions, while one moved quickly into a formal process involving several rounds of interviews. While the proccess was lengthy, the candidate was immediately impressed. She later shared that the thorough and well-structured process gave her valuable insight into the firm’s team dynamics, cross-border collaboration, and strategic growth plans across the region.
The Outcome
She accepted the offer in June 2025 and will join her new firm in October. The role offers stronger alignment with her practice focus, greater regional exposure, and improved visibility on progression.
Reflections from Sonia Taylor
“The process worked well because it was tailored around the candidate, not the market. Rather than waiting for something to open up, we created interest where the fit made sense. The trust built throughout gave her the confidence to make a move.”
Key Takeaways for Lawyers in Asia
- You don’t need to be actively job seeking to explore your options. A confidential conversation can reveal opportunities that aren't advertised.
- Lateral hiring at the senior level is often driven by strategic need, not public roles. Speculative introductions remain an effective route for experienced associates.
- Engaging processes lead to better decisions. Transparency, structured interviews, and partner access helped the candidate commit with confidence.
Considering your next step in Singapore, Hong Kong, or another legal hub in Asia? Contact us for a confidential discussion.
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