Exporters can club together

Apr 16 2008 by Karen Dent, The Journal

ANEW figurehead has been appointed to help boost the region’s businesses performance on the international stage.

Dr Alan Bell, the managing director of Trimdon-based business consultancy Critical Strategic Solutions, has been elected to head the North East’s International Networking Club.

The organisation, which is supported by the Government’s UK Trade & Investment, keeps members informed of international opportunities, such as support for exporters and new initiatives designed to help them in the worldwide marketplace.

Dr Bell, who has more than 35 years’ experience in business consultancy, said: “I’d like the club to be a base for all North East exporters, whatever their size or industry sector; a club that is run by the members for the benefit of all the region’s exporters.

“I’d like to see it grow and develop to become the voice for international business in the region at national level, working with Government to help ensure the North East gets a better share of the resources available. We don’t want the region to be forgotten – we have good companies, excellent managers and everything needed to become a very vibrant business region.”

Dr Bell, who is currently writing a book to help small business develop international business opportunities, also said he wanted to see the club grow and help the region to win the recognition and resources it deserved. Raj Mair, of Innovation IT Ltd, and Tom Scott, of Pareto (UK) Ltd, were elected as the club’s new vice-chairmen, and Kate Gordon, of Intern Study, and John Cartmell, of the Whyman Group, were elected to the committee. For a membership pack or to attend any of the meetings, contact the North East International Trade Hotline on 0845 0505054 or email inc@ukti.rito.co.uk