To me, the Chamber is the ‘go-to’ organisation representing UK businesses in China. It is rapidly – and very effectively – becoming increasingly influential in China.
However, with political conflict increasingly challenging UK-China relations, I want to help the Chamber increase the ‘voice’ of British business in China among UK politicians and government bodies.
I am a professional government affairs consultant with a global consultancy. I have many UK political connections. I formerly worked in Parliament where I worked with many now senior MPs, including former Prime Minister Theresa May. I have entertained over 20 MPs and Peers (Lords) during their visits to China, including several senior Ministers. I count some MPs as personal friends.
I match this with knowing China. I first came to Beijing in 2000 where I have lived for over 17 years, and now speak and read fluent Mandarin. Although I am now based in London, in normal times I travel to China every few weeks for business, and also because my wife and son live there!
I see being in London frequently as an advantage: I could help represent the Chamber in supporting the argument for businesses among key political and government decision-makers.