The International Academy is a series of three interconnected workshops, finishing with "The Foundations for International Success" on  Tuesday 28th January 2025.

No matter where you are on your international journey, the Academy offers the expert guidance, practical training, and essential resources to help your business thrive in global markets.

The "Foundations for International Success" workshop is aimed at SMEs who have initiated international trade and are looking to build a strong framework for long-term success. In this two-hour session, participants will learn about the importance of understanding global market dynamics, from economic trends to shifting consumer preferences. They will also discover how to develop a cohesive international brand, while adapting their marketing efforts to diverse cultural contexts.

Due to an imminent change in EU Regulation, this workshop will also focus on the General Product Safety Regulation  (GPSR): a new key instrument in the EU product safety legal framework, replacing from 13 December 2024 the current General Product Safety Directive  and the Food Imitating Product Directive. It modernises the EU general product safety framework and address the new challenges posed to product safety by the digitalisation of our economies.

Additionally, the workshop will focus on effective cross-cultural communication, a vital skill for building lasting relationships with international partners, customers, and suppliers. Participants will be introduced to strategies for identifying reliable international partners and managing successful collaborations. The session will also cover operational excellence, highlighting the importance of optimizing supply chains, distribution, and leveraging technology to ensure business scalability in global markets. By the end of the workshop, participants will be equipped with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of international business and establish a solid foundation for continued success.

Key Learning Points:

• Understanding Global Market Dynamics
• SMEs must continuously monitor and adapt to shifting economic trends, regional demand patterns, and competitive pressures to remain relevant and successful in international markets.
• Building a Resilient International Brand
• Establishing a globally recognized brand requires consistent messaging, while adapting marketing strategies to meet the unique preferences and cultural norms of each target market.
• Mastering Cross-Cultural Communication
• Effective international business relies on the ability to communicate and negotiate across cultures, overcoming language and cultural barriers to build strong relationships.
• Enhancing Operational Efficiency for International Markets
• Successful international operations depend on refining supply chains, optimizing logistics, and leveraging technology to ensure efficient and scalable business processes.

Register today for one of 20 limited spaces. From beginner workshops to advanced strategy sessions, our tailored support ensures you're equipped for success. Register for our upcoming workshops and begin exploring new business horizons today.

Open to members and non-members based in Dundee, this session is perfect for those who know that they want to expand their business globally and want to get things right, first time. Designed for businesses who have identified their target markets and are ready to negotiate the right terms for their contracts, find out how to set up arrangements with distributers or agents and ensure that their international trade will be set up for success.  

Our expert trainer, Jeff Lockhart from St Andrews Management Centre, will take us through the essential steps for successful international trade, from navigating regulations to understanding foreign markets.  
 
This is the perfect opportunity to learn practical insights, hear real-world success stories, and take your first steps toward going global. Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable guidance and start your international journey with confidence! 
 
You will also learn how we can support your business by applying for the Expert Help programme, find a Mentor who has experience of international trade, and much more! 

Jeff Lockhart, St Andrews Management Centre: 

Jeff Lockhart is an international training consultant, specialising in International Trade, Finance, Leadership and Management Development. 

He obtained his MBA in 1996 and is a Fellow of several bodies, including the Royal Society for the Arts, Manufactures and Commerce, the Chartered Management Institute and the Institute of Occupational Learning. He is also a Member of the Institute of Directors.

A past Scottish Chair of the Chartered Management Institute, he has held several senior level positions for industry-leading international businesses. Since 2001, has operated as a consultant to businesses in the UK, Azerbaijan, Brazil, Bulgaria, China, India, Ireland, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Malaysia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, and USA.

He is a Director and co-owner of St Andrews Management Centre Ltd, based in Cupar in Fife. He provides International Trade support to clients across the UK, and works in partnership with a number of Chambers of Commerce and Business Gateways in Scotland.

The Chamber International Academy has secured £24,600 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to support the implementation of business support workshops like The Chamber International Academy. 

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s support and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus