The Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC) has appointed Jocelyn Heng as its new managing counsel, with her tenure commencing on 12 January 2026.
In her role, Heng will lead the arbitration team and oversee case management. She will also be responsible for developing and supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening stakeholder engagement globally.
Outlining her immediate priorities, Heng emphasised the importance of continuing to deliver “excellence to its users with first-class case management”.
She also shared her long-term objectives, telling Asia Business Law Journal: “I aim to ensure that HKIAC maintains its position as a leading global arbitration institution by remaining agile, innovative and responsive to the evolving needs of the arbitration community.”
Expanding on her vision for the future, Heng acknowledged the rise of AI and expects it to be further integrated into the arbitration ecosystem. Additionally, she anticipates an “increased use of [the] HKIAC for disputes arising between the ‘Global South’,” referring to BRICS nations and countries in Africa, Latin America and parts of Asia.
Heng joins the HKIAC from Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer, where she served as a senior associate. Dual qualified in Hong Kong and England and Wales, she brings more than 10 years of experience in international arbitration and commercial litigation, having handled complex cross-border disputes under HKIAC rules.
She has also advised clients across a broad spectrum of industries, including cryptocurrency, financial services, telecommunications, consumer goods and construction.
