From the U.S.A to Bangkok: Magdala’s Life at Agoda
- Magdala Boyer
- Principal Counsel, Data Privacy (Cybersecurity)
- Living in Bangkok since 2024
Before joining Agoda, I worked for another tech company, focusing on a blend of data privacy work and incident response. When the opportunity to join Agoda came along, it felt like the perfect alignment. My spouse and I were ready for a change, though we didn’t realize how big that change would be. The role allowed me to showcase the expertise I had built over the years and bring it to a new space—the travel-tech world, and in Thailand, nonetheless.
A Day in the Life of a Principal Counsel in the Privacy, AI, and Cybersecurity Teamat Agoda
There’s no such thing as a “normal” day in my role. Some days are filled with meetings where I help tackle interesting legal questions, while others are spent heads-down analyzing new laws or regulations to understand their impact on Agoda’s operations.
In general, my roles involve a blend of advisory, compliance, and collaborative responsibilities. I provide legal guidance on cybersecurity, data protection, and security-related AI matters to ensure Agoda’s compliance with global regulations. That involves:
- Collaborating with the incident response team to support incident management, as well as drafting, reviewing, and updating internal policies and procedures related to cybersecurity.
- Closely monitoring and interpreting evolving cybersecurity and privacy laws, advising on their impact on Agoda’s operations, and negotiating contracts with vendors and partners to ensure robust cybersecurity clauses are included
- Conducting training sessions for employees on the legal aspects of cybersecurity, identifying and assessing legal risks, and recommending mitigation strategies.
- Reviewing law enforcement requests to ensure they align with data protection requirements, working cross-functionally with IT Security and GRC teams to align legal requirements, and overseeing the reporting of cybersecurity incidents to regulatory bodies.
Why Agoda is an Exciting Workplace
Agoda is unlike any company I’ve worked for before. The multicultural environment fosters understanding and inclusion, with colleagues from all over the world. This diversity has not only taught me about others but also helped me learn more about myself, making me a better communicator across cultural lines.
Growing at Agoda: Building Networks and Expertise
Agoda has helped me grow professionally by giving me the opportunity to build a substantial network in the legal and tech communities across Asia. Being based in Bangkok has brought me closer to issues affecting the region, allowing me to gain deeper insights and connections.
Relocating to Bangkok with pets: A Bold Move and an Opportunity Worth Taking
I confess that moving to Bangkok for work wasn’t something I had ever considered until a recruiter reached out to me. After researching Bangkok’s professional communities, Agoda’s reputation, and, of course, the beaches, I was sold. It was the right place at the right time for my spouse and me as we were both considering our next steps.
We relocated from Austin, TX, with our dog and cat. Moving with pets was challenging and required a lot of planning, but Agoda supported us throughout the process. The relocation process happened in a short time frame, about 4 months between my offer and flying to Thailand, and required discipline and careful planning. We sold what we could and spent two months visiting family and friends before the move. This experience taught us the value of relationships over accumulated belongings.
For anyone considering relocating to Bangkok, it’s an opportunity worth taking. It’s an investment in your career and personal growth, and once you’re here, you might find it hard to leave!
Living in Bangkok: Exploring and Connecting
One of the things I love most about living in Bangkok is the easy access to the rest of Asia. Bangkok is a travel hub, well connected to the rest of the region and beyond. Of course, traveling to Asia from the US is difficult and time-consuming, so we’re making the most of it now that we’re based here. So far, I’ve traveled to Singapore and to many islands and provinces in Thailand such as Chiang Mai, Koh Yao Noi, Koh Samui, and Phuket.
In Bangkok, I enjoy exploring the city’s distinct neighborhoods and discovering new restaurants and shops to revisit. The city offers a mix of vibrant urban life and quieter residential areas, which has been perfect for my spouse, our pets, and me. My dog especially enjoys going for long walks and having cafe stops in between. It allows us all to enjoy exploring the vibrant pet friendly cafe scene in Bangkok.
Building Community in Bangkok: Finding Your Place
Settling into Agoda and Bangkok has been a great experience. I’ve met genuinely open and kind people at Agoda, and the same is true for Bangkok. It took about nine months to fully settle down, partly due to the added complexities of having pets. One added complexity was finding an accommodation and area that was actually “pet friendly.” I found that accommodation might be advertised as pet friendly but that the facilities and surrounding area would not be, making it difficult to keep a playful puppy happy. Once we moved to a more residential area with more access to green space, I instantly felt at home and my pets were clearly much happier.
I’ve built meaningful connections with colleagues at Agoda, where friendships often blossom because so many of us share similar relocation experiences. Outside of work, I’ve attended local Meetups to make friends in the community and connected with law firm partners to engage with the local legal network. These efforts have even led to speaking opportunities, which have been incredibly rewarding.
For anyone nervous about starting fresh in a new city or workplace, my advice is to take a chance. You’ll learn more than you’ll lose.
Cost of Living in Bangkok: Affordable with Options
Bangkok is much cheaper than the city I moved from, Austin, TX. Moving from a high-cost-of-living city to Bangkok has been a positive adjustment. For example, a nice mid-priced meal for 2 can cost around $200 (6,900 THB) in Austin whereas a similar type of meal could cost about $35 (1,200 THB) in Bangkok.
That said, how much you spend depends on your lifestyle. Enjoying international cuisine and rooftop experiences can be on par with costs in Western cities, but sticking to local cuisine and less touristy activities helps keep expenses low.
Final Thoughts: Why Agoda is the Place to Be
Things move fast at Agoda, much like the city of Bangkok itself. In this fast-paced environment, your input is valued, and everyone works together to own the outcomes.
The most rewarding part of my journey at Agoda has been working in a true melting pot of a company. It has helped me become more adaptable and a better communicator across cultures. If you’re looking for a place to grow personally and professionally, Agoda is the perfect choice.
