Our People
Haeyoung Kim
Associate, Projects, Singapore
"For those aspiring to secure a Training Contract with Clifford Chance, I highly recommend applying for the summer internship. During the internship, you get to engage with people from diverse backgrounds and seniority levels, which will provide invaluable insights into the firm's culture and career paths."
When I first joined Clifford Chance, I was drawn to the firm's international and cross-border nature. During an introductory lunch session in my first year, I was struck by the friendly and welcoming atmosphere, which made it clear that this was a place where I could grow both personally and professionally.
How was your internship experience with the firm?
In 2020, I interned with Clifford Chance. Despite an entirely virtual experience due to COVID-19, it was still rewarding. The firm provided a structured program with daily talks and assignments, underscoring their commitment to training. We joined sessions with interns and associates from Hong Kong, highlighting the firm's global reach. A particularly memorable session involved legal technology, where we worked on building a legal bot, showcasing the firm's embrace of innovation. My mentor was incredibly supportive and took the time to discuss my research and brainstorm strategies.
How did your training contract shape your legal experience?
The internship solidified my desire to join Clifford Chance as a trainee. I was thrilled to be offered a Training Contract. Clifford Chance is one of the few international law firms with a Singapore Training Contract. It includes international secondment opportunities and four-seat rotation over two years. This flexibility was perfect for me, as I was exploring my interests. Each rotation offered insights into team collaboration and transferable skillset. The international secondment to London was particularly eye-opening, exposing me to different working styles and allowing me to meet colleagues in person.
At the end of my Training Contract, I chose to specialise in the M&A team. I enjoy transactional work, especially coordinating transactions. M&A provides a balanced experience, allowing me to safeguard clients' interests without the adversarial nature of disputes. The Singapore team’s strong work ethic and support make it ideal for growth. While the hours in M&A can be demanding, enjoying the work, being part of the right team, and taking time to relax help manage challenges effectively.
After qualifying, I undertook a client secondment that offered me valuable insights into client operations, deal processes, and the qualities clients seek in their legal partners. Building rapport with clients early on shaped my approach to client relationships, reinforcing the importance of understanding client needs and addressing them effectively.
How would you define the culture at the firm?
The culture at Clifford Chance is incredibly supportive. Everyone is approachable and willing to help. There are several opportunities that offer exposure to client interactions. At the firm, it feels as though everyone is working towards the same goal of serving clients' interests.