The quarterly publication of the International Legal Technology Association
Issue link: https://epubs.iltanet.org/i/230349
International Relocation: What's Your Flight Plan? While career opportunities propelled Stuart and Phil across the globe, Ellen and Vivien's moves were triggered by family situations. Hometown happenings fueled Sean's first move, while marriage was the wind beneath the wings of his U.S. flight. Here are additional details about their motivating factors: Stuart: I was working for Baker & McKenzie in Sydney when I was asked to HEAD GLOBAL KM projects, working out of Chicago. I had visited Chicago a couple of times and loved it, so I leapt at the opportunity. I haven't looked back. Sean: The first move was driven by a desire to EXPERIENCE more of the world and concerns about PERSONAL SAFETY. The second move was because of marriage. Phil: I moved to Chicago to TAKE UP THE GLOBAL CIO ROLE at Mayer Brown. I was familiar with Mayer Brown from when I lived in Hong Kong and always thought they were a great firm. I'd visited Chicago for a conference years ago and was very impressed with its mix between inner-city buzz and family-friendly suburbs. Ellen: After 14 years abroad and a total of 22 years away from my home state, I reached the point where the annual vacation to see my FAMILY in Kentucky started to feel like more of a strain than a pleasure. It just wasn't enough time to see everyone and catch up properly. With young nieces growing up and my parents reaching their seventh decade, it felt like a great time to return to my roots and savor the treasure that family can be. Vivien: The drivers for my move were a combination of FAMILY reasons — elderly parents who need family close by — and CAREER OPPORTUNITIES for both me and my husband. We get to carry bigger responsibilities in a fast-moving economy. It has been exciting, challenging and rewarding. Being by the lake, Chicago has a lot in common with Melbourne, which is on a bay. Chicago even has a river that's similar to the Yarra River that runs through Melbourne. We joke that our river flows upside down. All the dirty water is on top, and it's clean underneath. This is not unlike the Chicago River that flows backward. The varied relocation experiences of our panelists really emerged when we asked about the three greatest lessons/ tips they would share with someone considering an international relocation. However, a few common themes emerged, including mental preparation and the value of balancing cultural pride with assimilation: Stuart: If you don't have the assistance of a relocation agent, the most helpful thing you can do is speak with someone who has made a similar move. Ask them what they wish someone had told them in the first month and what their biggest challenges were for the move. Tax is always an issue with international relocations, and finding a competent tax adviser who knows the rules of both places can be very difficult. In the U.S., specific big challenges also include navigating the health care system and building your credit score. Peer to Peer 53