Baker McKenzie Wong & Leow, the Singapore member firm of Baker McKenzie, has appointed Kelvin Poa as Country Managing Principal, effective 1 January 2026. Kelvin succeeds James Huang who successfully concluded his term on 31 December 2025, having led the office since 1 January 2023.
Kelvin is a highly regarded lawyer with more than 27 years of experience in investment funds and employment law. He currently heads the Funds and Employment practice groups at Baker McKenzie Wong & Leow, advising venture capital, private equity, and real estate clients on structuring investments, acquisitions, restructurings, and exits. Kelvin also supports asset management clients in navigating transformational transactions and complex reorganizations.
In the employment space, Kelvin provides strategic advice on non-contentious matters, including contracts, separation agreements, and restrictive covenants such as non-solicitation and non-competition terms.
Commenting on his appointment, Kelvin said: “I’m honoured to have been appointed as Country Managing Principal and thank my fellow principals for their trust in me. I would also like to express my appreciation to James for his leadership over the past years, guiding the Firm through post-COVID workplace changes and our office move. I look forward to working closely with our global and regional teams to deliver seamless client outcomes in today’s dynamic market.”
James said, “I congratulate Kelvin on his appointment. His leadership and expertise in the funds and employment space will undoubtedly take the Firm to even greater heights alongside Singapore’s growth as a regional gateway for international investments, talent development, and workplace transformation.”