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Eleven Heads of International Trade Profession from
across Whitehall appointed, all working with Crawford Falconer,
the Government’s Chief Trade Negotiation Adviser;
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The group will ensure the government builds and grows
existing trade capability.
Today (Tuesday 1 May) Crawford Falconer, the Government’s Chief
Trade Negotiation Adviser, officially launches the ‘International
Trade Profession’.
The Profession will raise the skills and ambitions of those
working, or aspiring to work, in international trade by:
- Opening up new
roles and career opportunities in the UK government
- Supporting
talented people to develop careers in trade
- Providing a world
class training programme
The recognition of International Trade as one of government’s
most important skills represents an important step forward
in post-Brexit trade preparations.
Ten government departments (in addition to DIT) have appointed a
Head of International Trade Profession working with DIT’s
Falconer. The group will champion the profession within
government ensuring that UK trade expertise continues to grow as
a pipeline of talent to tackle the future is developed.
On the importance of international trade becoming a core
government discipline, International Trade Secretary said:
“By establishing the International Trade Profession, we have
embedded the development of trade negotiation capability at the
heart of the government’s agenda and taken another important step
in getting UK trade policy Brexit-ready.”
Crawford Falconer, the government’s Chief Trade
Negotiation Adviser and Head of International Trade Profession,
said:
“As Head of Profession, it is my job to ensure that UK trade
negotiators are ready to strike trade deals around the world and
deliver the benefits of free trade to all parts of the
country.
“Through the profession we are ensuring government attracts
the best and brightest talent by not only offering trade
professionals a clear route into working on trade policy, exports
and investment at the centre of government but also nurturing
their ability for the future through access to world-class
training.”
Carolyn Fairbairn, CBI Director-General, said:
“Trade between the UK and partners old and new is a
fundamental catalyst to job creation, productivity and prosperity
across the country.
“Business will warmly welcome the appointment of Heads of
International Trade Profession across Whitehall, demonstrating
that the Government is building expertise and capability in a
crucial area for post-Brexit Britain.
“The Government has a vital role to play in helping to
dismantle trade barriers and improve market access around the
globe. This is particularly key for the thousands of smaller,
entrepreneurial firms who want to break into new markets, and who
hold the key to unlocking our trading future.
“Business and the Government can be powerful joint venture
partners when entering new markets.”
