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David Buckley
Partner team
Sydney office
Moscow Testimonial 2
A 3-year New Zealand-qualified Corporate lawyer working with a leading US firm
What first attracted you to Moscow?
The principal reason behind my move to Moscow was a desire to try something a bit different to the normal overseas destinations for young New Zealanders. Moscow sounded like a dynamic city with lots to offer both professionally and culturally. There of course was a confluence of other variables that contributed to my decision (e.g. the experience of working in an emerging market economy, the opportunity to learn a second language, etc). Further, Russia always struck me as a fascinating country and, coupled with my legal work in New Zealand focusing on oil & gas, it seemed like a good match for me.
What were your biggest fears before the move?
I do not think my fears before the move were any different to those of a Kiwi relocating to a more traditional destination such as London. The anticipation of what lay ahead monopolized my thinking. However, I did wonder how easy it would be to integrate into Russian every day life, given the language barrier and the fact that I was moving to a country that was still in a transitional phase (both economic and political).
How did you find the process of actually moving out to Moscow?
Reasonably straightforward. The law firm I work for was helpful in organising visas. They also arranged accommodation for me until I was able to locate an apartment – I understand this is standard practice across the international law firms operating in Moscow.
What's the work like?
The work is fantastic. Unsurprisingly, you perhaps get slightly more autonomy working in Moscow than you would in more developed cities. M&A, capital markets and project work dominate the legal landscape and it is likely you would find yourself working in one of these spheres. The work can be challenging, especially when you add to the mix the fact that many transactions you will work on have a political dimension, but highly rewarding. Like anywhere, when there is work to be done, people work hard.
What's it like living in Moscow?
There is never a dull moment in Moscow. The city has such a rich culture and history and there is always something to do or see, whether it is watching the ballet or going to the Champions League final. Also, in case you are worried that the Soviet charm has all but dissipated, one early morning I woke to the sound of tanks driving past my apartment on the way to Red Square. Navigating the city is made easy by the highly efficient metro system, which is itself a beautiful piece of Russian engineering and construction.
What fears (if any) turned out to be unfounded?
The winter is harsh, but bearable.
What one piece of advice would you give to anyone coming out there that you wished someone had mentioned to you?
The regulations surrounding visas and work permits are unclear and subject to capricious change. Even Russians are unsure of the rules and this can prove complicated for foreigners obtaining the necessary documentation to stay in the country.
Moscow is often rated the world's most expensive city in which to live - how expensive have you found it to be?
On the whole, it is an expensive place, yet prices in Moscow run the complete spectrum from affordable to astronomical. Locals and people who are familiar with the city say, if you know where to look, you can eat, shop and live on a modest amount of money. However, ex-pats tend to end up paying a “convenience” premium on accommodation and food.
Many people seem to take the view that shopping is best avoided in Moscow in favour of other European cities where you can buy goods at significantly lower cost. You can find most food items you require in the supermarkets and at restaurants. If you want to lead a lifestyle similar to at home, be prepared to pay a premium for using services designed for ex-pats.
The majority of people who have never travelled to Moscow always have concerns regarding security - how have you found living there?
I would say the degree of safety one feels here is comparable to other large cities. I think a particular (and legitimate) concern people have is that the police are not regarded as a source of assistance in the manner we are used to, with bribery reported as commonplace. As in any large city, not drawing attention to oneself, or visibly appearing a tourist typically works.
Have you ever regretted your decision moving there?
No, not once. You will undoubtedly have hard days in Moscow but, in my experience, these are few and far between. For me, it is all part of the challenge of working in Russia.