Yesterday (13 September), the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade held its first ever Connect & Grow event.
The event welcomed in over 50 new members of the Chartered Institute, who were joined by director general Marco Forgione and head of membership Sophie Tothill.
It was the first in a monthly series, where members will get the chance to hear directly from Forgione and ask questions to senior members of the Chartered Institute about the work of the organisation and their newly acquired benefits.
Always relevant
Greeting the new members, Forgione said that the trusted trade, and the role that the Chartered Institute plays in guaranteeing that, had never been more relevant:
“I think that the rationale for the role that the Chartered Institute plays is only increasing.
“The importance and the relevance of the members of the Chartered Institute is more relevant today than it has ever been.”
Forgione referenced the recent parliamentary event, marking the achievement of Chartered Status from His Majesty Charles III and the launch of a report on using e-commerce to boost SME exports, as proof of the ongoing work.
‘Dedication’
He added:
“The team and I are absolutely dedicated and committed to not just representing your views and your concerns to decision makers and to regulators, but to drive forward a positive agenda for professionalisation.”
In the session, Tothill ran through the benefits available to members of the Chartered Institute, which included a package of re-launched Special Interest Groups (SIGs), a new programme for mentoring and next year’s planned series of events including a devolved regional forum.
At least one mentee already found a mentor within the meeting to help them along on their international trade journey.
Opportunity to listen
Tothill said:
“I was delighted to see so many new members join us yesterday.
“These events are an opportunity to hear the latest from your Chartered Institute, to network and connect with your peers in a convenient half-hour session.”
The next session will be held on 10 October.
Interested members can sign up here.