WNY Chamber hosts launch of Diplomatic Advisory Hub  

Thousands of businesses to benefit from expert geopolitical insights

• Foreign Office and British Chambers of Commerce launch new Diplomatic Advisory Hub  

• Hub launched at much-loved Leeds factory  

Businesses across the UK are set to benefit from expert geopolitical insights thanks to a new initiative launched in Leeds this week.  

The Diplomatic Advisory Hub, a joint initiative by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and British Chambers of Commerce will provide business across the country with access to timely and strategic geopolitical advice.  

The hub was launched at the factory of Leeds-based jukebox manufacturer Sound Leisure. Run by former Leeds Chamber of Commerce president Chris Black, family-run Sound Leisure transacts some 65 per cent of its sales overseas. 

The Diplomatic Advisory Hub will see diplomats seconded into the British Chambers of Commerce and will be led by Richard Oppenheim, a former ambassador who brings a wealth of diplomatic experience across some of the world’s most complex and strategically important markets in the Middle East and Japan, as well as multilateral experience at the UN, on EU issues and as Commonwealth Envoy.    

The hub will serve the more than five million SMEs operating in the UK, all of whom will have access to the new service, including advice on understanding new regulation, responding to geopolitical shocks, and anticipating trends in global trade.  

The Hub was officially launched by FCDO Director of Economic Growth, Tammy Reynolds, at Sound Leisure’s factory. There then followed a panel event featuring Ms Reynolds, Steve Lynch, British Chamber of Commerce director of international trade Steve Lynch, British Chamber of Commerce director general Shevaun Haviland, Richard Oppenheim, the Diplomatic Advisory Hub chief and Mr Black himself.    

Sound Leisure, recognised as one of the world’s leading makers of high-quality, retro-inspired jukeboxes, employs over 100 people locally and exports to more than 40 countries around the world.   

Foreign Office Minister, Seema Malhotra, said: ”We are stepping up our support to businesses through our newly launched Diplomatic Advisory Hub, which will bring together the British Chambers of Commerce’s extensive business network with expert advice from British diplomats. The Hub has hit the ground running, briefing more than 600 businesses this week on the evolving situation in the Middle East and what it means for them. 

 ”In an increasingly contested world, it’s more important than ever for Government and businesses to work together to navigate the intersections between geopolitics and commerce, respond to crises effectively and seize opportunities for growth overseas.” 

Chris Black, MD of Sound Leisure, said: “Whether it has been Brexit, geopolitical uncertainty, tariffs or the disruptive military events seen in the last week in the Middle East, British businesses have been in dire need of help and support when it comes to trading internationally. 

“This service will give SMEs in Yorkshire and nationally the considered advice and support they need in order to take their goods and services to markets across the globe.” 

James Mason, chief executive of West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Firms in West and North Yorkshire have been exporting first-class goods and services for hundreds of years. 

“In times of uncertainty, the Diplomatic Advisory Hub will give small businesses the support they need so they can carry on this proud tradition.”

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Trade is the fastest way of growing the economy. The Diplomatic Advisory hub will help more SMEs navigate the complex world of geopolitics, giving them the knowledge and certainty to expand into new markets.  

“This unique partnership with the Foreign Office shows how government and business working together can drive forward growth.  

“British firms know business and British diplomats know world politics. Bringing them closer together can only be a recipe for success.”

Richard Oppenheim, Director of the Diplomatic Advisory Hub: “I’m delighted to be leading this powerful new support network for businesses.  

“As a former UK Ambassador, I know how crucial strategic advice is to British SMEs wanting to trade around the world.  

“The Hub is both a front door and a feedback loop. It’s a front door for businesses to tap into geopolitical advice, and a feedback loop so that what businesses are seeing in supply chains and boardrooms flows back to our diplomats and policy makers.”