The New Trade Equation: Policy Meets Practice, Hull
Schedule
Thu Nov 20 2025 at 06:00 pm to 08:30 pm
UTC+00:00Location
R&D Centre, Reckitt Benckiser Health Care UK Ltd | Kingston upon Hull, EN
About this Event
In an era of shifting global alliances, trade wars, and economic uncertainty, how are UK businesses navigating international trade? What strategies are leading companies adopting to stay resilient — and what role can finance professionals play in preparing for the road ahead?
Join CIMA, Reckitt, Future Humber, and a panel of seasoned trade experts for a timely discussion on the future of international trade, with particular focus on the challenges and opportunities facing finance leaders and businesses in the Humber region.
This event is designed to provide both strategic insights and practical takeaways for finance leaders, exporters, and business decision-makers navigating a rapidly changing trade environment. It also offers a valuable CPD opportunity and a platform to connect with peers, experts, and partners across sectors.
Whether you’re navigating post-Brexit complexities, dealing with customs headaches, or trying to align your finance strategy with sustainability regulations — this event is for you.
Speakers:
Keynote: Harshad Depala – Procurement Finance Director, Reckitt
Harshad brings a high-level view of global procurement and finance strategy, offering a unique lens on how multinationals are managing cost, risk, and opportunity in today’s unpredictable trade landscape.
Pauline Wade – International Trade Development Director, John Good Group
With a career spanning continents and over 100 government trade visits, Pauline brings unmatched experience in helping UK SMEs break into new international markets. She’ll share lessons learned from decades in international trade development.
Darren Southwell – Owner, Relay Port Agency
A veteran of customs brokerage with over 40 years of experience, Darren brings gritty, real-world insights from the front lines of UK-EU trade and customs. As a member of the National Policy Group for customs, he knows what’s changing — and what’s not.
Who is this for?
- CIMA-qualified management accountants
- Finance professionals based in the Humber region
- Members of Future Humber Bondholders
- Exporters, customs professionals, and logistics leaders
- Business leaders interested in international growth and trade compliance
Spaces are limited – secure your place today and be part of this important conversation.
Agenda
🕑: 05:45 PM - 06:00 PM
Arrival, registration, refreshments
🕑: 06:00 PM - 06:10 PM
Welcome address: Parrish Pryce-Williams, CIMA North East England Vice-Chair
🕑: 06:10 PM - 06:40 PM
Keynote talk: Harshad Depala, Procurement Finance Director, Reckitt
🕑: 06:40 PM - 07:20 PM
Panel discussion: 'The new trade equation'
Host: Pauline Wade
Info: Hear from experts about how global trade tensions, tariffs, and geopolitics impact the UK trade, particularly in the Humber region; how businesses in the North should respond to the latest developments in UK-EU trade relations; the biggest challenges SMEs face when engaging in cross-border trade today; how the global supply chain disruptions are affecting costs and financial planning; what role finance teams can play in making international trade more resilient; and many more!
🕑: 07:20 PM - 08:30 PM
Networking reception with access to Reckitt's archives
Where is it happening?
R&D Centre, Reckitt Benckiser Health Care UK Ltd, Dansom Lane South, Kingston upon Hull, United KingdomEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 0.00 to GBP 20.00















