Dear Members and Friends,
As trailed last week, I am very pleased to announce our new website is now live as part of our Autumn relaunch. Not only will you notice a new look and a smoother user experience, but more substantially members will find new services and functions, including a members’ only section of resources, and a jobs page. Still in their infancy, we expect these resources to grow over time and become a core part of our support to members. We encourage you to explore, test and feed back to us your thoughts and suggestions for improvements so that we can ensure over time we are providing the services and support you need. The new website is just one of a number of changes in the way BEI is positioning to boost UK exports of infrastructure, capacity building and international development. You can learn more from this short video here.
We have been overwhelmed by the take up of tickets for our “virtual” British Expertise International Awards scheduled for 21st October. We are particularly grateful that FCDO Minister for Africa James Duddridge has agreed to provide a keynote introduction, alongside our Patron, His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester. As a reminder, places are free, and we are incredibly grateful to our sponsors HR Wallingford, Cardno Emerging Markets, ICF, Turner & Townsend and Scriptoria for facilitating this as well as our networking site, which is already attracting a lot of interest. Many thanks also to our partners, the GREAT Campaign, Devex and Infrastructure Intelligence for supporting and spreading the word. Other speakers include recently appointed ODI Chairman and past President of EBRD Sir Suma Chakrabarti, HM Trade Commissioner for Africa Emma Wade-Smith, HM Trade Commissioner for South Asia Alan Gemmell, HM Trade Commissioner for Latina America Jo Crellin, CEO of the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) Philippe Valahu and Chief Executive of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) Julie Lilley. As a reminder, from 3pm attendees can join us for the announcement of winners by our special invitees. Then from 4pm onwards, guests will be able to take full advantage of face to face virtual networking via an intuitive AI-powered matchmaking platform. There are still sponsorship opportunities and we encourage you to learn more here. For all BEI Awards related information and enquiries please contact Alexandra.
Finally, Black History Month is here and as part of BEI’s growing mission to encourage more diversity and inclusion amongst our members and the wider sectors they represent we have established a Diversity and Inclusion Working Group. We have a number of events planned over coming weeks and months to catalyse discussion and action. To find out more or share some ideas of your own, please contact Derrick.
Next week…
On 13th October, we are In Conversation with His Excellency Charles Hay, for our event on Malaysia — the Gateway to SE Asia. The event will explore the political and economic landscape, areas of particular opportunity for UK exporters, and the help available for companies considering developing business in the Malaysia
On 14th October, as part of the “Deep-Dive Series” we will be exploring Business Opportunities in Turkey, with insights from UK Ambassador to Turkey, H.E. Sir Dominick Chilcott KCMG. Turkey is seen as one of the most investment-friendly countries in Europe. Key sectors of opportunity include infrastructure, energy, security and healthcare. Join us as we take a closer look at these sectors and more.
Future Events Highlights…
On 20th October, we are hosting by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), giving insights into the Global Economic Recovery. Robert Schoelhammer, Europe Representative and Abdul Abiad Director, 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, we’re hosting a 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’re excited to be hosting a “Deep-Dive” into Kenya — a land of many business opportunities. Join us as UK High Commissioner to Kenya, HE Jane Marriott OBE and DIT colleagues share more in-depth details on the opportunities for British companies wishing to do business in Kenya, and how UK businesses can capitalise on Kenya’s economic expansion strategy. Sectors of opportunities include infrastructure, education, energy, agriculture and more.
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
