At Moore, we don’t just talk about being part of a global network, we encourage our people to live it. One of the most impactful ways we do this is through international secondments. These opportunities go beyond a simple change of environment; they open the door to new perspectives, unique challenges, and cross-cultural experiences that leave a lasting impact on one’s career.
This year, we had the pleasure of welcoming Arnold Chung, Audit Supervisor from Moore Kingston Smith, who joined our Singapore office for a few months. His story provides a candid and practical glimpse into the challenges and personal growth that comes with integrating into a new firm in a different city.
The Journey Begins: Ambition Meets Opportunity
After completing a degree in Economics from the University of York and securing his Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA) qualification while working full-time at Moore Kingston Smith, Arnold began considering how to broaden his professional horizon. He then made the proactive choice to explore a secondment in Asia—seeking a fresh perspective while leveraging the strength of the Moore Global network.
“I wanted to go to Asia,” he said, “but in an English-speaking environment.” Singapore was the natural choice: familiar enough to navigate, new enough to grow.
Navigating The Reality: Lessons From the Field
Transitioning to a new firm in a new city, with different work rhythms and expectations, can be both exciting and disorienting. For Arnold, what stood out most was the heightened pace and intensity of Singapore’s peak audit season, where leaner teams meant greater individual responsibility and faster turnarounds.
While his manager provided support where possible, much of the learning happened on the job—testing his adaptability, initiative, and resilience.
He also reflected on the subtle language dynamics in the workplace. While the official working language is English, informal moments occasionally defaulted to Mandarin — a reminder that cultural fluency goes beyond words on a page.
However, these are the kinds of challenges that lead to growth.
Beyond the Office: Cultural Enrichment
Professional growth is only part of the story. Just as valuable are the personal experiences that come with immersion in a different culture.
From playing badminton weekly with a group of friendly uncles he met online, to exploring hidden corners of the city on the MRT, Arnold embraced life in Singapore with openness and curiosity.
“The convenience here is amazing. The MRT just works, and there’s always good food available, even at odd hours.”
These day-to-day experiences build cultural awareness, empathy and resilience — qualities that are as valuable in client work as technical expertise.
A Message to Future Secondees
To any graduate or team member considering a secondment: you don’t have to be fluent in the local language or have all the answers in advance. What matters most is a willingness to learn, ask questions, and embrace being outside your comfort zone.
At Moore, we believe in helping our people thrive — and that often means giving them the chance to see the world, experience new ways of working, and return with insights that benefit both their personal growth and the wider team.
Secondments aren’t just about what you can offer another office — they’re about what you bring back.
