Regional Director
(Singapore)

“Life must be understood backwards… but lived forwards.” Søren Kierkegaard.

After an 18-year career in Singapore’s Foreign Service, Sharon plunged into the private sector armed with her extensive experience in government, some courage, and a UCLA-NUS EMBA.

Beginning with a stint in the media industry, she then joined the regional headquarters of a global consumer brand to combat illicit trade across Asia Pacific markets.

Well-positioned at the nexus of public and private sectors, Sharon is uniquely equipped to connect the two.  Her experience gives her the rare perspective needed to manage the issues and interests of commercial and government entities, and to deliver results for clients and stakeholders.

Life philosophy:
Everything we’ve experienced in life builds the person we are today; and everything we do now builds the person we are tomorrow.  Who you were is less interesting than who you are and who you will be.

Associate
(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

A self-acclaimed perfectionist, Lynette’s philosophy in life is to always do her best. Tapping on her interests in literature and economics, she had previously interned at The Edge Malaysia as a journalist and at DBS Bank in the macroeconomics and equities research team covering the ASEAN and Malaysian business environment. When she’s not building up her knowledge in economics, you can find her painting either landscapes or Malaysian heritage buildings. Lynette is currently studying for a postgraduate certificate in Actuarial and Financial Studies at the Australian National University. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and a minor in Chinese from the University of Melbourne.

People she admire:
“Two people! First, Jamaica Kincaid, an Antiguan-American novelist overcame many barriers to become one of the most prominent New Yorker writers. Second, Maria Edgeworth, an Irish economist/novelist who devoted her life to championing agricultural reform and economics management reform while simultaneously producing great literature.”

Consultant
(Phnom Penh, Cambodia)

If you need a practical solution, Sambath is the person to look for. Hardworking, independent and logical, Sambath has chalked up years of valuable knowledge and experience across a broad range of expertise from trade to business and finance. Over the years, he has worked with several international financial institutions such as the Asian Development Bank, World Bank and International Finance Corporation, while being deeply engaged in private sector developments. In his free time, you can find Sambath playing a game of table tennis.

His greatest achievement: Despite having limited access to educational opportunities in rural Cambodia, he taught himself English and worked hard, eventually earning his Master’s Degree in Economics and International Development from International University of Japan.

Associate
(Jakarta, Indonesia)

A registered nutritionist in Indonesia, Dian’s passion and expertise have been nurtured through her various experiences in nutrition and health-related projects that aim to connect the private sector with government stakeholders and academic institutions. As an adaptable and future-oriented individual, she is always motivated to find the best way forward. Dian holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical and Public Health Nutrition from University College London, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Nutrition from Universitas Indonesia.

Her role model:
Her mother, who is a pillar of strength for Dian.

Associate
(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

“Everything happens for a reason” – this is a quote that has changed Yee Jing’s outlook on life and guided her on a journey of personal growth. A hardworking and conscientious individual, her interest in the sciences and health are evident in her experiences working in research laboratories, healthcare charity organisations and in the biotechnology sector. She has also written a dissertation on anti-ageing drugs, which she considers one of her greatest achievements. Yee Jing graduated with a Master’s Degree in Medical Biotechnology and Business Management from the University of Warwick, and possesses a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Medical Sciences from the University College London.

Her favourite past-time:
Trying out new recipes!

Associate
(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

Driven and inspired to make a difference, Fara leverages on her extensive background in research, government affairs and global institutions to provide critical perspectives on ASEAN foreign policy. Aside from her extracurricular work on gender and security, you can find her practising Arabic or enjoying musical theatre. Fara has a Master’s in Global Affairs, specialising in the Middle East (Social Science & Public Policy) from King’s College London, and a holds a Bachelor’s in Politics and Religion.

Her greatest achievement:
Producing a statement report on the ongoing Yemen conflict that was submitted to the United Nations 46th Session of the Human Rights Council.

Associate
(Jakarta, Indonesia)

Maria always believes in having a growth mindset and wholehearted commitment. She has gained wide experience from her internships at the ASEAN Foundation and is frequently involved in social entrepreneurship initiatives. When she’s not feeding her interest in Southeast Asian politics, Maria enjoys taking spontaneous day trips to discover new places with a cup of coffee in hand.

One of the greatest impacts on her life:
Her international upbringing and experience living in 5 countries.

Advisor
(Jakarta, Indonesia)

Logical, independent and observant, Anissa is able to draw the link between policymaking and the realities on the ground. Her background as an Adjunct Lecturer and her vast public sector experience as a policy advisor to the Indonesian House of Representatives and Parliamentary Working Groups allows her to provide critical insights and help clients navigate through the Southeast Asian landscape. In her free time, Anissa re-energises with a stay-home day and some quality time with her cats.

Her ideal getaway:
A short camping or road trip with lots of nature and no internet!

Managing Director (Acting)
(Singapore)

In Amanda’s experience, for every problem, there is a solution – though it may not always be a neat solution.

Articulate, sharp, and savvy, Amanda brings with her in-depth experience working in bilateral and multilateral settings from her time with the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including several years at the Singapore Embassy in Beijing. Both her time as a diplomat and her current stint at White Rook Advisory have given her the tools to be resilient and nimble in uncertain and fast-moving environments.

Philosophy in life:

“Unbeknownst to most, the world is completely controlled by a single pipe smoking rabbit” – Marc Johns.

Associate Regional Director
(Singapore)

If one could describe Nishita, it would be something like this – “Trustworthy. Kind. Has the patience of a saint! Respected by her clients given her vast knowledge bank and ability to break down data into simple, easy-to-understand language. She always has your back!” Nishita focuses on the food and nutrition industry, trade associations and development partners such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB). She works on projects that straddle global, regional and local issues for multinational clients operating in the Asia Pacific region.

Downtime activities:

Feeding her headspace with politically-charged crime novels or experimenting with colours to stretch the limits of her imagination.

Country Director
(Jakarta, Indonesia)

Angga is a self-described composed and optimistic realist.  A seasoned public affairs specialist focusing in corporate communications and public policy, Angga was the Associate Director at Burson Cohn & Wolfe where he managed portfolios ranging from FMCGs to energy, technology, infrastructure and regional organisations. Prior to that, he worked at the ASEAN Secretariat, where he started first at handling ASEAN political cooperation and then moved into free trade negotiations between ASEAN and external parties. Angga holds a Master’s Degree in Public Policy from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy.

Go-to quote: “He was last seen climbing close to the peak” – As someone who loves the outdoors, particularly hiking, Angga believes he’d be happiest if he were remembered as someone who constantly aimed to reach for the peak in life.

Consultant
(Vientiane, Lao PDR)

An enthusiastic, creative and disciplined individual, Dalaphone believes in remaining adaptable in life. She brings with her almost 20 years of experience working in various sectors such as investment, health, agriculture, forestry, industry and commerce, as well as research. Her sense of humour is evident in the relationships she builds and has lent itself well to her wide networks and partnerships across the region. Dalaphone has previously worked at the International Finance Cooperation as the Lao Agroforestry Project Officer to support its implementation and management, in close collaboration with the Lao Department of Forestry. In her prior capacity, she has also served as a consultant for various organisations such as the European Forest Institute, CGIAR and the United Nations Development Programme, a national specialist for the Food and Agriculture Organisation and CIRAD, and has worked closely with USAID.

“My hobbies? I love watching movies and hanging out with my friends to exercise a sense of humour and build networking skills!”

Senior Advisor
(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

A determined, dedicated and delightful individual, Kadri brings with him over 40 years of valuable experience in the public affairs and communications space, with expansive overseas and journalistic experience. His extensive knowledge in the private sector, government relations and industry issues is evident in his work in The Coca-Cola Company as the Director of Public Affairs and Communications for nearly 21 years. Prior to his work at The Coca-Cola Company, he has also managed corporate communications in various sectors after stints in both ABB Malaysia and Projek Lebuhraya Utara-Selatan (PLUS). Kadri currently serves as the President of the Malaysian Advertisers Association and the Vice-Chairman of Advertising Standards Malaysia.

His Greatest Achievement:
As an avid cyclist, one of his greatest achievements is completing a 160km bike ride.

Advisor
(Manila, Philippines)

Maes is the go-getter you’d want on your team. With years of experience in international trade negotiations and policymaking under her belt, she has built an arsenal of skills in promoting and advocating for business needs and interests. She looks out for the interests of those she advocates for by sharing global best practices with stakeholders, championing the robust enforcement of trade and investment standards, and conducting capacity building.

Associate (Administration & Operations)
(Manila, Philippines)

With 13 years of experience in the hospitality and services sector under her belt, Jonna is hardworking, dedicated, trustworthy, resourceful and highly-sensitive to the needs of those around her. Used to meeting and dealing with people from all walks of life, she admires individuals who are not only intelligent, but also sensitive to the needs of others. In her downtime, Jonna’s usually on Instagram, catching on her favourite British series or cooking up storm for her family.

Talent she wished she had: Ability to translate her ideas into art

Manager
(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

Easy-going, conscientious and a multitasker, Ariff believes that there’s always a way to bounce back whenever we lose our way. He gained wide experience while working in both the executive and legislative branches of the Malaysian government, serving a cabinet minister, member of Parliament and government think-tanks. When he’s not knee-deep in crafting legislation or facilitating consultations with various stakeholders, Ariff likes to chill at his favourite java joint, reading or simply catching up with friends.

Favourite go-to app: Facebook. It reflects the true reality of its users, on-the-ground.

Management Associate
(Singapore)

Independent, adaptable, curious, open-minded and responsible, Alexis values different experiences and relishes the thrill of taking risks. With a Political Science Degree from the National University of Singapore, she’s worked on local and regional issues across a broad client base while previously interning with White Rook Advisory. Alexis dreams of setting up her own business in future.

Talents she wished she had:

The ability to speak all languages

Senior Associate
(Jakarta, Indonesia)

With a keen eye for detail and a strong analytical mind, Ananda has the ability to switch gears from science to business seamlessly. She leverages on her extensive experience in the automotive, food and beverage and renewable energy industries to craft accessible solutions for her clients in the nutrition and energy sectors. Outside the office, Ananda can be found doing fun, outdoor activities like swimming and cinematography.

Go-to app:

Twitter. To get real-time updates and to understand the workings of people’s minds and attitudes at any point in time.

Associate
(Singapore)

Passionate, enthusiastic, inquisitive, talkative and competitive, this Politics, Law and Economics graduate has made the health and nutrition, food and beverage, and sustainability sectors her stomping ground as she gears up for the fast-paced, demanding and ultimately rewarding world of management consulting. Prior to this, she gained experience in digital marketing and communications in Shanghai and Singapore. Theatre is one of her passions, giving her opportunities to spark conversations and meet new people.

“If I were stranded on an island… I would miss having conversations and the Internet!”

Associate
(Hanoi, Vietnam)

Hoa brings her experience in the digital, data analytics, public policy and government relations spheres to help partners address the unique challenges in ever-evolving, high pressure sectors such as nutrition and energy in one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies. Living in a fast-paced country known for its vibrance and resilience, Hoa is always on the go whether it’s scooting from place to place on her trusty bike, or juggling myriad requests from stakeholders who love her bubbly personality. An avid coffee-drinker, she hopes to establish her own family coffee chain with its own unique story and style one day.

Talent she wished she had:

Ambidexterity, so she can double up on her multi-tasking skills!

Partner
(Singapore)

“For me, achievements are segments of life’s tapestry that get sewn together over time… my first taekwondo black belt, the first trade agreement I closed… the first of anything really… it’s the adrenaline and exhilaration …the journey and heartache and then the sense of fulfilment that never gets old.”

A self-proclaimed vintage Gemini, Venetta’s approach to life is simply about balancing work that pulls her in different directions, with family, good wine and long walks. That’s why her philosophy in life is simply, “Live. Laugh. Love.”

When she’s not solving licence-to-operate issues, legislative hearings and inquiries, public health and safety crises or those requiring litigation support, she’s tirelessly absorbing and sharing new information to ensure the team is constantly three steps ahead of everyone else. She leverages on her 20-over years in policy and government experience to strategically guide the whole team, always ensuring everyone delivers to White Rook’s high standards, which are second to none. In short, if your project requires you to win on all sides, then you would want Ven in your team.

Go-to quote:

“I can do things you cannot. You can do things I cannot. Together, we can do great things” – Mother Teresa.

Associate
(Singapore)

Grace’s background in food science lends her easily to tackling technical and challenging regulatory issues that many find dry and bland. But combined with her creativity, Grace is able to deliver such complex information in user-friendly ways to help in decision-making. A typical millennial, Grace’s go-to source for self-enrichment is YouTube where information is delivered in creative and targeted ways. Grace is also a self-professed geek who relaxes by indulging in a good bit of gaming. (But she also goes outdoors when she’s rock-climbing.)

Most admires:

Michelle Obama for challenging norms.

Associate
(Jakarta, Indonesia)

With Josephine, it’s always about value. Persistent, independent and determined to get things done, she loves to give anything a go! Leveraging on her extensive background from building Indonesia’s first deep-sea port to interning at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), she’s valued for her critical, valuable insights and problem-solving abilities. Finding balance in this fast-paced environment, Josephine enjoys painting, writing and playing musical instruments.

Talents she wished she had:

The ability to sense everyone’s reality.

Consultant
(Naypyidaw, Myanmar)

Coming from a small town named Mogok where 90% of the world’s rubies and sapphires are mined, Sai has witnessed first-hand how the abundance of natural resources could be both an advantage and a curse. Enthusiastic about bringing sustainable economic development to his own country, Sai believes that digital technology can be used to jumpstart this development process. Over the years, Sai has worked across different sectors ranging from telecommunications and economic development to education technology. In his free time, Sai enjoys listening to good music, especially those from the 1960s and 1970s.

Go-to quote:

“Do it for the passion. Do it for love. Do it for the people. Do your best.”

Consultant
(Phnom Penh, Cambodia)

Sambath’s can-do attitude belies his passion for development issues. Over more than 20 years, he has worked with diverse development partners such as USAID, FAO, the World Bank, ADB, to name a few. He has lent his drive and expertise to business start-ups, incubation and capacity-building for SMEs, private sector development across the agricultural value chain, and entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem mapping and design.

Senior Advisor
(Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)

With over three decades of experience working with Malaysia’s Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI), Datuk Ravidran brings profound knowledge about the Asia Pacific region, having been directly involved in various ASEAN economic initiatives, as well as bilateral and regional Free Trade Agreements. He’s also served as the Economic Counsellor at the Malaysian Embassy in Thailand. An easy-going individual who loves to unwind with sporting activities, he cites his children as his greatest achievements.

Go-to quote:

“Work responsibly. Don’t think about the rewards of your actions.”

• Building and enhancing organisational resilience by being prepared for the unforeseen – assessing risks, determining business or other tangible impact, identifying contingencies and building a plan for a rainy day

• Maintaining organisational credibility and stakeholder confidence in times of uncertainty or upheavals

•  Strategising with our partners not just on what to communicate but how to communicate and who to communicate with

•  Providing our partners with the information, tools and skills to communicate right

•  Working with businesses to formulate their market access, go-to-market, and license-to-operate strategies and expanding their footprints in markets

•  A sounding board for our partners in the pragmatic formulation and implementation of public policy

•  Effecting public policy impact by building meaningful, constructive relationships with myriad stakeholders, from governments and the wider public sector to business, NGOs, and the media

•  Finding practical pathways to navigate complex public policy issues