On Friday, January 16 we landed at AmCham Singapore, a non-profit association representing the interests of present and potential U.S. investors in Singapore. Thomas McNutt, Head of Government and Public Affairs, gave our group an overview of AmCham and led a discussion with panelists John Watlington, Elon ’12 (MBA); Katherine Watlington, Latham & Watkins; Ryan Schork, Elon’09, SingTel Group Digital Life; Alex Small, ZALORA Group; and Alissa Ohl, Weber Shandwick. We heard about life as an expat, insights, tips, observations, and the opportunities that exist for individuals interested in working or starting a business abroad. After the panel discussion, we divided into several groups and enjoyed lunch with the panelists at local dining establishments.
That evening President and Mrs. Lambert joined our group for dinner, which included an array of Asian delicacies, prepared by the Long Beach Main Seafood restaurant. Conversation, bright smiles and plenty of laughter ensued. The evening left everyone with great memories that will last a lifetime…
AmCham provides insights, advocacy, and connections through events and publications to its members. AmCham represents members at the highest levels of government in Singapore and Washington and offers members a platform to engage with leaders across the region. It is the largest foreign business chamber in Singapore and represents an estimated $25 billion in investments in Singapore and the region, with over 5,000 members representing more than 750 companies. It hosts over 275 events a year and fosters 13 industry committees, providing insights into doing business in Singapore and Asia with focus on pertinent issues, enabling information exchange and helping develop advocacy strategies. Committees hold meetings monthly at the AmCham boardroom or a member company’s office to network, to hear insights from industry leaders and to discuss issues relevant to their sectors. Furthermore, AmCham advocates on behalf of its members through dialogues with governments and their trade missions.
AmCham is a member of the Asia-Pacific council of American Chambers of Commerce (APCAC). Through 25 independent member AmChams located in 19 economies of the Asia-Pacific Region, APCAC represents the growing interests of over 10,000 business entities and over 50,000 business executives in the region. The APCAC membership manages trade volumes in excess of US$400 billion and direct investments (FDI) of over US$200 builion.
Written by Kim Giles
