British Water boosts international business mentor team

British Water international director Lila Thompson said, “Our International Business Mentors are a fantastic resource, making exporters with experience of particular regions directly available to our members. We are the only association offering this service in the UK water sector and I’m delighted to welcome Shaun Stevens to this expert team.”

Shaun Stevens said, “I’m pleased to have the opportunity to provide advice and assistance to British Water members looking to grow their businesses in the markets of Ireland, Jordan and Oman. The first-hand experience that I and the other mentors can offer is invaluable to companies exploring new markets and seeking to grow their exports.”

International Business Mentors can help companies navigate regulations, logistics and trading tariffs. They can also help with networking, including identifying suitable local contacts and signposting projects and opportunities.

Thompson added, “With Brexit there is a renewed desire to explore international markets and the Government is keen to look at new trade deals. This presents important opportunities for the water industry supply chain, especially SMEs.

“Smaller companies are not always comfortable taking advantage of the full range of opportunities, often because of the perceived risk involved. By meeting others, who have been there before, the route to new markets becomes clearer and they can learn more about achieving success and the pitfalls to avoid.”

British Water’s International Business Mentors are:

• Australia - Phil Tomlinson, sales and marketing director, Metasphere
• Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia & UAE - Bill Mitcheson, director, Export Assist
• China - David Wilson, sales manager, Partech Instruments
• Europe - Anna Whittaker, regional sales manager, Modern Water
• Ireland, Jordan & Oman - Shaun Stevens, business development manager, EPS Water
• Middle East, Africa & India - Ian Barrett, commercial director, Black & Veatch
• USA - Tom Williams, managing director, Enebio

Please email lila.thompson@britishwater.co.uk if you would like to get in touch with a mentor.

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