The IEA qualification, which is the first of its kind in Ireland, brings together the practical and operational aspects of international trading. The professional qualification is of particular importance given the UK’s departure from the EU and the new trading arrangements that will be negotiated in the weeks and months ahead.
Simon McKeever, CEO, Irish Exporters Association commented:
“With negotiations on a future trade deal between the EU and UK due to commence, the relevance of the IEA’s Certificate in International Trade is particularly valuable to any business exporting to or importing from the UK and any country outside of the EU Single Market. Given that the current trading arrangements enjoyed by the EU-27 and the UK will not be the same from 1 January 2021, businesses need to be prepared.
The Withdrawal agreement came into force on 1 February, prompting the next phase in the Brexit process – forging a new trading arrangement. While Irish businesses heaved a sigh of relief when an agreement was reached, there is still an enormous amount of work to be done and we cannot afford to become complacent. At a minimum we expect a massive increase in the amount of paperwork which will need to be filed. Practical skills and an understanding of the international trading environment will support businesses operating in turbulent trading times.
I would like to thank our President David Carthy, former IEA President Marie Armstrong, Martin McVicar of Combilift, John Mee, Supply Chain Excellence and Business Analytics Manager Glanbia and the members of the Steering committee (Glanbia, Intel, Combilift, DB Schenker, Alba Consulting) for your support in bringing this certificate to fruition.
My congratulations to the graduates. I would like to thank the Secretary General of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mr Niall Burgess, for his support and the support of his department.”
Niall Burgess, Secretary General Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said:
“Knowledge of international trade requirements is vital for companies as they work to diversify their markets. I am delighted to have had this opportunity to present the first certificates awarded by the Irish Exporters Association aimed at supporting and promoting practical on the job training in this important skillset. “
The IEA Certificate in International Trade was launched by the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mr Simon Coveney, T.D., a year ago (13 February 2019) alongside the then President of the IEA Marie Armstrong, IEA CEO Simon McKeever and the Managing Director of Combilift Martin McVicar.
Catherine’s role is Technical Assistant and she is one of the newer members of the Ingredient Solutions team. Catherine recently graduated in Food Science and Innovation at WIT and is motivated, positive and enjoys working in a team. Catherine says, “I always see the good in every challenge that approaches me as they can lead to opportunities to learn more.” She is looking forward to focusing on the areas that she can control and learning how to perfect them.
Ted is the Factory Manager, he is the man that keeps everything running smoothly, supporting production and technical operations. He ensures that all the machinery within the factory functions at maximum efficiency and is properly maintained.
Suma has worked for Ingredient Solutions for two years as Technical Manager – leading the technical team. Before working for Ingredient Solutions, Suma worked in Asia, the Middle East and Europe and has over twenty years experience in management and leadership in food and other industries.
Pina is our UK Sales Support Administrator and has worked for Ingredient Solutions since 2012. She works alongside Gary Davies and the sales team providing them with sales information and supporting the team especially when they are on the road. Pina works remotely for Ingredient Solutions from her base in Luton in the UK.
Marek is based near Lublin, that’s not a typo we don’t mean Dublin, he’s our man on the ground in Eastern Europe.
