November 2024: From a week of training in Hong Kong to meeting the Executive Committee at the firm, charity fun-runs to my first deal: Jonathon Jackson takes us through his first month working at White & Case.
Week 1: Foundational Milestone Program in Hong Kong
My first week began in Hong Kong where I took part in the Foundational Milestone Program. There's only two first-year associates in Tokyo, so it was nice to kick off our careers by meeting some of our Asia-Pacific peers and start building our network from day 1.
We spent the week learning about the Firm's various practice groups, receiving practical training regarding the many apps and technological resources available to us, and hearing advice from partners and senior associates.
There was also plenty of time for social events between sessions and at night. One of my favorites was getting dinner at Hong Kong's famous China Club, where I got to try Peking duck for the first time!
Week 2: Back to Tokyo
Tokyo Station the night I arrived back in Japan
After a week of training, I was ready to put my new knowledge to work. As a new member in the Corporate M&A team, I did due diligence for an outbound public deal in the US, drafted engagement letters for new matters, and helped write an article regarding purchasing listed companies in Japan.
This week, in addition to a welcome lunch for all the recent new joiners, a few of us participated in a charity fun run held at the Japanese National Stadium. It was a great opportunity to get to know people in the office better outside of work. And all the running made the pizza we had afterwards taste even better.
Week 3: Back to Business
As week three rolled around, I was finally starting to get used to my new routine. I had moved into my new apartment, and the deal I was working on continued at pace.
This week our office also held our annual Back-to-Business event. Every year we invite our clients to come hear a keynote speaker address a relevant topic. This year the speaker was Taro Shimada, the CEO of Toshiba and the theme was "Navigating Transformation: Growth Strategies for Sustainable Business Management". The event was at the Bulgari Hotel, which is just down the street from our office.
Week 4: A visit from the Executive Committee
In my fourth week, I had the opportunity to meet and hear from the Executive Committee when they visited Tokyo to host a town hall. In addition to a panel featuring all the members of the committee, one member sat down with just the associates from our office and held a special Q&A session.
It was fascinating (and very exciting!) to hear about the Firm's global strategy directly from our leaders. I, as a first-year associate, got to have conversations with the Firm's senior leaders, including Heather McDevitt, our Chair.
Overall, it was a fantastic first month with White & Case, and I can't wait for what will come next.
