British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia

On Friday, October 27, 2023, the British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia welcomed the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), and Woods International, LLC.

Nearly 20 BABCPHL members and area partners gathered around the table to welcome our guests. The discussion centered on an overview of the Greater Philadelphia business ecosystem with a focus on regional trade and commerce with the UK. Several prevalent industries were represented by professionals from both the public and private realms. The Department for Economic Development from the State of Pennsylvania and the Commerce Department from the City of Philadelphia started the discussion by setting the stage with a general overview of the regional economy, and a dynamic dialogue followed.

LCCI’s objective was to understand the market and how they can collaborate with us to expand their international reach across the Atlantic. The sectors of greatest interest to LCCI are life sciences, logistics/airports, energy, robotics/AI, fintech, higher ed, and media tech. They are eager to develop partnerships in these areas and we are poised to help them achieve their goals. We look forward to collaborating on several initiatives in 2024, including Temple University’s student trip to London in March and London Tech week in addition to activities around the Philadelphia Phillies London summer showdown in June.

The conversation around the table served as an excellent touchpoint, highlighting not only what regional businesses are focused on but how we can collaborate and grow our transatlantic relationships. Special thanks to Marta Kozlowska, Head of International, London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Tom Woods, President, Woods International, LLC, for stopping in Philadelphia to meet with us.

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Ties Between Two Great Nations – American & British Architecture & Design – Recap  

On Tuesday, October 17, 2023, the British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia presented Ties Between Two Great Nations – American & British Architecture & Design. The event was held at Carpenters’ Hall, an iconic building and treasure in historic Philadelphia. Special thanks to our sponsor, UK Business & Trade/British Consul-General New York, and program partners, the Carpenters’ Company, and the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia for collaborating with us.  

The historic relationship between the UK and Greater Philadelphia carries over to present-day aspects of society, including city planning, building, construction, engineering, design, and architecture. Post-Brexit, the UK has an opportunity to launch new export markets, and UK architects are one example. This year, the US and the UK signed a mutual recognition agreement (MRA) of qualifications in architecture which further enhances trade ties between the two nations.  

Emma Wade-Smith OBE, HM Trade Commissioner for North America and Consul General New York, and UK Government was our special guest. Emma introduced the content portion of our program. She talked about how the MRA will strengthen trade ties between the US and the UK, streamlining processes and reducing costs and examinations without compromising safety standards. She explained how the MRA enables world-class architects to export their expertise across the Atlantic, facilitating domestic and international mobility for US and UK licensed practitioners. Emma mentioned how sustainable design capability and the drive to NetZero are significantly impacting the global built environment. And US and UK engineers, architects, designers, and urban and regional planners are at the forefront. Also, Emma explained how the MRA allows American and British parties involved in the construction and lifecycle management of built assets to more effectively collaborate and share data.  

Following Emma’s remarks there was an hour-long panel discussion facilitated by Alan Greenberger, FAIA, Drexel University, Vice President for Real Estate and Facilities, Drexel University. Alan is a longtime friend and supporter of Greater Philadelphia’s connections to the UK. He served in former Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter’s administration as Deputy Mayor for Economic Development and Director of Commerce, as well as executive director and then chair of the Philadelphia City Planning Commission. He traveled with the Nutter Administration to London on a commercial trade mission with several area companies, and throughout his tenure with the City of Philadelphia he welcomed countless UK businesses to the region. Alan expertly led an exceptional group of industry leaders through a dynamic discussion about American and British architecture and design, legacy projects, and future collaborations. 

Each speaker had the opportunity to present their projects and experiences on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. Catherine Clark, RIBA ARB Dip Arch BSc, President, Royal Institute of British Architects – USA talked about her role in delivering the MRA, and how its impacting the built environment. Scott Compton, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, Principal Architect, AIA Strategic Council Convener discussed advocating for sustainability with AIA Pennsylvania and other peer organizations; provided examples where he integrated sustainability efforts into iconic historic properties, and mentioned his Amtrak projects, and the regional transit approach to sustainability. Georgina Robledo, Associate Partner at RSHP spoke about the similar and different approaches to the implementation of sustainable design regulations between the UK and US; how will the merger of current thought processes and best practices in both the UK and US will benefit and advance regulatory changes on both sides of the Atlantic; and what we can learn from the UK planning and design focus on the “public realm.” Richard Maimon, FAIA, LEED AP BD+C, Partner, KieranTimberlake spoke about his lead work on the high–profile project – the US Embassy in London. He talked about the differences between the municipal planning and approval processes in the UK and the US, and what we can learn from the UK planning and design focus on the “public realm.” Danielle DiLeo Kim, AIA, President & CEO, PHILADELPHIA250, talked about Philadelphia 250, and how the group’s strategy and plans are informed by her community design and planning background. Danielle outlined why legacy projects are important to PHILADELPHIA250; what citywide transformative opportunities Philadelphia 250 is developing; how they are identifying the projects; and who they are collaborating with to execute these activities. 

Many thanks to our distinguished speakers and to everyone enables this timely presentation. We look forward to tracking the progress and development of many discussion items presented during the event. 

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On Thursday, July 13, 2023, more than 150 guests from the international business community of Greater Philadelphia gathered for our 11th Annual Summer International Business Networking Reception. Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP hosted and sponsored the event in the bright, welcoming, and spacious main floor lobby of their 17th and Market Street office. This annual event is truly a group effort, demonstrating Philadelphia’s strong global economic position as a prime destination for business.

The BABCPHL was proud to co-host this program with the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, and to partner with the Chilean, Eurasian, French, German, Irish, and Norwegian Chambers of Commerce, the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia, and the World Trade Centers of Delaware and Philadelphia. Special thanks and recognition of our sponsors: Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP; The Department of Community & Economic Development for the State of Pennsylvania; and PhilaPort – The Port of Philadelphia for supporting this event. It takes a village, and we have a mighty strong one here in town, representing the world.

Keynote speakers, Rick Siger, Secretary, Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, and Magda Martinez, Chief Operating Officer, The Welcoming Center, both newcomers to their current roles, addressed the group. Their presentations focused on the invaluable partnership between public and private sector entities that collaborate to support business and workforce development and education. This joint effort bolsters the region’s competitive edge as an area favorable to welcoming commercial investment and people from all over the globe. Rick talked about Governor Shapiro’s new administration and the State of Pennsylvania’s enthusiasm to pursue and foster economic growth. He mentioned that business attraction and retention are important components driving the strategy. Rick also said, the State is eager to speak and engage with regional businesses to ensure objectives are met. Contact David Briel, Deputy Secretary, Department for Community and Economic Development, State of Pennsylvania to begin a dialogue. Magda talked about the Welcoming Center’s work and extensive range of support they provide to the region’s immigrant population. She offered valuable statistical information about the strong impact of the immigrant workforce. The Greater Philadelphia population is representative of a truly globally diverse nation. The world is becoming smaller, and great things happen when we can work effectively together to create business development opportunities, jobs, and prosperity for all.

Many thanks to our distinguished speakers and guests for joining us for this highly anticipated annual event. We are grateful to our speakers, sponsors, and partners for coming together to make this a successful program, and we look forward to continued partnership.

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The BABCPHL welcomed a delegation of Scottish companies to the Greater Philadelphia region during the week of May 15, 2023. The Scottish North American Business Council (SNABC) brought the representatives to Philadelphia and the surrounding area to explore opportunities and expand their international trade activities. Delegates spent the week meeting with public and private sector stakeholders across the City and the State. The objective for this mission was to create mutually beneficial opportunities for companies in both Scotland and our region. We were honored to collaborate with SNABC to ensure the visitors received a warm welcome, learned about our area, and made valuable contacts.

Meetings launched Monday morning, May 15^th with a market awareness session. Robert Jaffe, Director of Business Development, Baker Tilly US, LLP welcomed our group. Jane Rosenberg, Executive Director, BABCPHL provided introductory remarks for Michael O’Rourke, Manager, International Business Attraction & Retention, Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development, State of Pennsylvania; Pierre-Olivier Lugez, Senior Director, International Business & Global Strategy, Department of Commerce, City of Philadelphia; and Hasna Achik, Manager, Economic Competitiveness and Energy Initiatives Leadership Councils, Select Greater Philadelphia, who presented industry and demographic data about our region. The BABCPHL invited a select group of members from various business sectors to join the roundtable discussion, offer their insight, and network with the Scottish delegates. After the market awareness session concluded, delegates met one-on-one with local public and private sector potential clients and trade partners, based on their individual interests.

On Monday evening the SNABC hosted a networking reception for BABCPHL members as well as many others involved in international trade throughout the region at Yards Brewery. Mayor Kenney was the special guest. There were several meetings and events through Thursday, May 18^th to showcase the delegates businesses and facilitate connections.

Special thanks to Allan Hogarth, Executive Director, and Eilidh MacDonald, Executive Assistant, from the SNABC for organizing this mission and collaborating with us on the ground here in the US to ensure the delegates got the most out of their visit.

Click here to learn more about the Scottish companies who visited our region and click here to view photos taken throughout the week.

On Saturday, March 18, 2023, a spirited group of British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia and Irish American Business Chamber & Network members and friends gathered for a rugby viewing party. Con Murphy’s Irish Pub on the Parkway hosted our special event to watch the England versus Ireland Six Nations Championship match live broadcast from Aviva Stadium. Guests enjoyed delicious pub food and drink, along with networking and a business card raffle draw for exciting prizes. It was a great match with strong plays by both teams. Ireland came out victorious winning 29-16 against England. Some interesting rugby stats: this was the final match of the 2023 Six Nations Championship; Ireland claimed a 32-15 bonus-point victory over England during the 2022 Championship; Ireland and England have contested 139 rugby test matches since their first meeting in 1875; England won 80 of those matches, and Ireland 51; and there have also been eight drawn matches between the two nations.

Jason Walker, current Treasurer for the British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia and Managing Partner at Cross Border Financial Planning USA LLC sponsored the event and delivered remarks during half time. Jason has been a member of the British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia for nearly a decade. When he left the UK and moved to Philly, the BABCPHL was one of the first Associations he joined. Jason commented, “it has been a great business networking Group and way to meet professionals involved with many different business sectors as well as a wonderful social outlet to meet British expats working and living in the area.” He spoke briefly about the Organization, and thanked event partners and raffle donors: AEG Rugby, Con Murphy’s Irish Pub, Irish American Business Chamber & Network, NBCUniversal Sports Pub Pass, Philadelphia Union, and PHL Sports, a division of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Guests were delighted to be together to watch the match, share pints, eat delicious pub food, and of course network. Despite the team rivalry, it was exciting, nail biting, and fun to gather for a friendly networking event centered around sports – a great cultural unifier no matter the competition.

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2022 Signature Annual Holiday Lunch: Celebrating the Future of Immune Health – Cheers to a Bright Future!

On Thursday, December 8, 2022, we hosted our Signature Annual Holiday Lunch. This year’s theme focused on the future of immune health. Headline speakers: Dr. Jonathan Epstein, the William Wikoff Smith Professor and Chief Scientific Officer for Penn Medicine, and Mark Rohlfing, Vice President of Operations, Almac Clinical Services, discussed their organizations’ groundbreaking research, technology, clinical trials, and how their work is enabling humans to live healthier and longer lives. James Kenney, Mayor of Philadelphia, along with Emma Wade-Smith OBE, HM Trade Commissioner for North America and Consul General New York highlighted how the life sciences industry operating in Philadelphia and the UK are investing in this key business sector and collaborating to make the future bright. Our holiday program featured UK holiday traditions and sponsors: Almac Group, American Airlines, Citrin Cooperman, Santander Commercial Banking, and Forensic Resolutions.

Approximately 150 guests gathered to celebrate the pioneering life sciences work taking place at Penn Medicine and Almac Group, and transatlantic trade. The program featured informative presentations by keynote speakers as well as remarks from Stephen Neuman, Vice President, Global Government Affairs, American Airlines; Kevin Ryan, Partner, Citrin Cooperman Advisors; and Nick Lotz, President, BABCPHL and Managing Director, Head of Mid-Corporate Banking at Santander Commercial Banking. The event included a formal midday meal, traditional “Christmas Crackers,” and exciting raffle prizes, called by Howard Silverstone, incoming BABCPHL President and raffle draw leader of ceremonies extraordinaire. Guests were crying with laughter listening to Howard’s witty jokes. Special thanks to local retailers, restaurants, hotels, musical and performing arts groups, sports teams, and our hometown, hub airline, American Airlines for their generous donations.

Every year the BABCPHL chooses a regional charity to support during the holiday season. A portion of proceeds from this event will be donated to the Ronald McDonald House Charities Philadelphia Region in celebration of the life of an extraordinary woman who changed the world, Dr. Audrey E. Evans. Dr. Evans was a trailblazing oncologist who created the Evans Staging System for neuroblastoma treatment. Born in York, England in 1925, she was the visionary and co-founder of the first Ronald McDonald House in the world in Philadelphia. There are now 380 Houses in forty-five countries, including the United Kingdom. Dr. Evans was a woman who cared deeply, and we are honored to do our small part in ensuring her legacy.

This year’s Signature Annual Holiday Lunch was particularly meaningful. This event marked the return of our holiday party after a hiatus brought on by the pandemic, and it recognized the life and contributions of her Majesty the Queen. Professionals from both the public and private sectors were thrilled to be back together again for this annual holiday gathering honoring the strength of transatlantic trade. Attendees joyously celebrated the innovative life sciences developments, making it possible to gather again in person for the first time since 2019. The event concluded with everyone standing to view the live recording of Philadelphia’s cultural ambassador, The Philadelphia Orchestra perform God Save the Queen at Royal Albert Hall just hours after the Queen passed away. We are proud to support the relationship between our region and Great Britain, and to applaud life sciences leaders and BABCPHL Club Level members who are making the future bright.

Special thanks to BABCPHL 2022 Holiday Lunch sponsors, without whom this program would not have been possible: Almac Group, American Airlines, Citrin Cooperman, Forensic Resolutions, and Santander Commercial Banking.

Best wishes for a healthy, happy, and prosperous holiday season. We are thankful for your support and look forward to seeing you in the New Year.

For photos from the event, click here. 

On Wednesday, July 27, 2022, the British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia and the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia welcomed more than 100 guests for the 10^th Annual Summer International Business Networking Reception: PHL & The World – Ready, Set, Network! For the first time in three years, public and private sector regional international business leaders gathered in the lobby of Morgan, Lewis & Bockius’s Philadelphia Office for the return of this beloved annual event. The Asian, Chilean, French, German, Irish, Japan and Mid-Atlantic Eurasian American Chambers of Commerce, and the World Trade Centers of Delaware and Philadelphia collaborated to celebrate the City’s status as a top US destination for foreign direct investment and trade.

Michael Pedrick, Partner at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius graciously welcomed guests by opening the formal remarks portion of the program. Michael is the immediate past President and current Secretary of the British American Business Council. He has been an active board member for more than two decades and the Firm is a founding member of the Organization. Lauran Swartz, President & CEO of the World Affairs Council delivered an upbeat introduction to our two keynote speakers – Anne Nadol, Commerce Director, City of Philadelphia and Angela Val, President & CEO, Visit Philadelphia. Both Anne and Angela presented informative data and favorable current statistics highlighting Philadelphia as a hospitable place for business and an attractive region for foreign direct investment. They addressed the important role public-private partnerships play in effective economic recovery, stability, and growth, and how the influx of visitors and the return of travel and tourism will boost all businesses and organizations serving regional and international markets.

Guests listened attentively to the valuable, current information about economic development and growth presented by our distinguished speakers. The energy in the room was electric, and the positive vibes about collaborating for a stronger and better future were palpable. Our speakers had to pause on several occasions for audience applause. The many participating groups that collaborated in this annual event exemplify how working together advances our mission and underscores our region’s prominent role in the global economic community.

Attendees networked, exchanging business cards, shaking hands, and mingling long into the evening. Everyone eagerly dropped their business card into the basket to try their hand at winning prizes generously donated by some of the participating groups for a raffle drawing. Special thanks to our host, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP and our sponsors: The Department for International Trade, EisnerAmper and the Port of Philadelphia. This event would not have been possible without their investment and support.

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