The club, supported by UK Trade & Investment, aims to help North East businesses stay ahead of the world exporting game and offers members the chance to keep abreast of new international opportunities, find out about the support that exists for exporters and learn of new initiatives as they are launched.
Dr Alan Bell was elected chairman at the club's latest meeting and is keen to welcome new members to enable the club to grow and become a "voice for international businesses" in the region.
Dr Bell is Managing Director of Critical Strategic Solutions, in Trimdon, County Durham, a global consultancy specialising in business solutions. He has more than 35 years experience in the industry and holds a doctorate in international business development from the University of Newcastle as well as a Masters in Business Administration and is a Bachelor in Psychology.
He is also currently writing a book to assist small business managers to develop business and international business opportunities.
Dr Bell 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.
"And I'd like to see the club grow considerably and ensure it plays its part in helping the North East win the recognition and resources it deserves while at the same time providing local businesses with the necessary support they need to put the region on the world map and increase our international economic performance."
Other committee members elected were: Raj Mair, of Innovation IT Ltd (Vice chairman), Tom Scott, of Pareto (UK) Ltd (Vice chairman), Kate Gordon, of Intern Study and John Cartmell, of The Whyman Group.
The next meeting will take place at Ramside Hall Hotel, Durham on Monday, 12 May, from 4.30pm.
For a membership pack or to attend any of the meetings, contact the North East International Trade Hotline on 0845 05 05 054 or email mailto:inc@ukti.rito.co.uk
