Dear Members and Friends,
As Covid-19 related restrictions continue to be reviewed, the government recently announced new information on local COVID alert levels that also have an impact on business. If you have not done so it is worth reviewing these to ensure we are all doing what we can to keep everyone safe whilst optimising business effectiveness.
Like many of you, the team at British Expertise International have worked hard to adapt to the difficult circumstances, and in doing so have found new and innovative ways of ensuring our membership remains connected, informed and prepared to seize the export opportunities that continue to emerge around the world. Now that we are well positioned with relevant UK government departments, BEI is beginning to build out a number of wider partnerships around the UK in support of a more coordinated and effective approach to promoting British expertise globally, on behalf of our members and the wider UK supply chain.
As part of these efforts we are pleased to announce a new formal partnership with Infrastructure Intelligence, the UK’s leading source of business news, views and comment for the infrastructure sector. Our partnership will drive greater focus on international opportunities in the pages of Infrastructure Intelligence, and a greater reach and encouragement to companies across the UK. Importantly this includes to smaller and medium sized companies that contribute so much of the specialist skills the UK benefits from and deserve to form the backbone of UK exports. Andy Walker, editor of Infrastructure Intelligence, said: “Our new partnership with British Expertise International is an exciting one for everyone who cares about the health of our sector, and of exports in particular. Together Infrastructure Intelligence and BEI will be able to provide a much wider audience with the insights and connections they need to benefit from the UK’s export potential.”
Another reminder that our new website is now live, with new services and functions including a members’ only section of resources and a jobs page. You need to create a new account to access these resources and sign up for events, so please do register. Please also share with us any topical articles, thought leaderships pieces and other resources that we can include to showcase your news and achievements.
Finally; a reminder there is still time to sign up for our virtual British Expertise International Awards Ceremony taking place next week, on Wednesday 21st October from 15:00. After the main event there will be an opportunity to meet and network using our intuitive AI-powered matchmaking platform. Once we’ve received your registration, we will forward a personal link for the networking platform, where you will be able to see other attendees who match your interests and schedule a series of short networking meetings. If you have not received your personal link, and for any other BEI Awards related information and enquiries, please contact Alexandra.
Next week…
On 20th October, we are hosting an event with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), as they share updates and insights into the Global Economic Recovery. Robert Schoellhammer, Europe Representative and Abdul Abiad, Director of Macroeconomic Research Division will discuss the macroeconomic economic recovery picture globally and in Asia. Join us to hear how the ADB sees the current economic situation evolving.
Also on 20th October, join us for a timely roundtable discussion on Diversity in Recruitment, in partnership with BAME iD. This event is for HR and Recruitment staff and will aim to facilitate open discussion about the recruitment challenges around diversity and inclusion. This event will be hosted under the Chatham House Rule to ensure a safe speaking space. To request join please email Matthew.
On 21st October, we are excited to bring you a “Deep-Dive” into Kenya — a land of many business opportunities. Join us as the UK government’s team in Kenya share more in-depth details on the opportunities for UK companies wishing to do business in Kenya, and how businesses can capitalise on Kenya’s economic expansion strategy. Sectors of opportunities include infrastructure, education, energy, agriculture and more.
On 21st October from 15:00, tune in to the British Expertise International Awards Ceremony.
Future Events Highlights…
On 27th October, as part of Black History Month, join us for a discussion on Black Leaders in Development. As part of our Diversity and Inclusion focus, will be hosting a panel of senior black men and women working in the international development sector as they share their career journeys — experiences, challenges and career progression insights.
On 28th October, we have a stellar panel discussion lined up, to explore and share perspectives on the newly formed Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and how it might shape the UK’s New Global Direction. The panel will include Stephen Twigg, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) and previously chair of the International Development Committee; Baroness Kate Fall, a British political advisor who served as Deputy Chief of Staff for David Cameron and was nominated for a life peerage in August 2015; and Tom Cargill, CEO of British Expertise International, & Chair of the British Foreign Policy Group. The panellists will share their perspectives on the merger, the expected or perceived opportunities and also highlight, in their view, some potential challenges that need to be managed to ensure the success of the new department in bringing even greater impact and influence on the world stage.
On 29th October, we are taking a look at Australian Trade & Investment Opportunities. This event will give participants a unique insight into Australia’s business landscape from key government stakeholders. Our panel will include Trade and Investment representatives from Austrade in UK, and each of the states: New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia. Priority sectors for Australia include infrastructure, cybersecurity, defence, rail, mining and more. In 2019, the UK was the second largest direct investor in Australia, reflecting the significant and growing opportunities for doing business.
Remember to join our LinkedIn Group!
We are more active than ever on the BEI LinkedIn Group, where we share insights, highlight upcoming events and showcase our members’ latest news and thought leadership. Join the group here.
With Best Wishes
Tom
Tom Cargill
Chief Executive Officer
British Expertise International
