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The Sonder Podcast

Podcast Episode: Life and Legal Careers in Asia — One Year On with Sonia Taylor

Rebecca Adlington
December 5, 2025

In this episode of Just Briefly, we speak with Sonia Taylor, Director of Sonder Asia, about market shifts in Hong Kong and Singapore, international hiring trends, and the realities of life as an expat in one of the world’s most globally connected legal regions.

Episode Overview

Twelve months after launching Sonder’s Asia office, Sonia reflects on how the legal recruitment market has evolved — and what lawyers should expect when considering a move into Hong Kong or Singapore.

Key themes in the discussion include:

  • Changes in hiring demand across Hong Kong and Singapore over the past year
  • The profile of internationally trained associates that firms are prioritising
  • Practical considerations for lawyers relocating or lateralling within Asia
  • What expat life in Hong Kong is like in practice — professionally and personally

Sonia also shares her own career journey, having relocated from Houston and worked in both Singapore and Hong Kong, before leading Sonder’s expansion into Asia.

Who This Episode Is For

This conversation will be most relevant to:

  • UK-, US-, Australian- and Asia-qualified lawyers exploring roles in Hong Kong or Singapore
  • Associates seeking high-calibre work and stronger progression routes
  • Lawyers assessing regional mobility within Asia
  • Professionals interested in legal recruitment

Why Asia?

Hong Kong and Singapore continue to be major hubs for international dealmaking. For lawyers coming in from overseas, Asia often means:

  • Big-ticket work and responsibility early on
  • Opportunity for progression
  • Strong compensation and favourable tax setups

For those considering their next strategic move, Asia continues to present compelling career opportunities.

Watch and listen now on YouTube .

Rebecca Adlington
Global Marketing Manager
Sonia Taylor
Head of Asia