Talk: Doing Business with China

Build Your Global Career: Lessons from Yorkshire’s Trade Mission to China

Gain direct insight into the realities of international commerce. James Mason, Chief Executive of the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, shares practical takeaways from leading the region’s largest-ever trade delegation to China.

Whether your ambitions lie in cross-border trade, supply chains, consulting, or entrepreneurship, this conversation unpacks how global commercial ties operate outside the lecture hall.

James alongside many local business leaders on Yorkshire's largest ever trade mission to China

What You Will Gain

Understand what employers actively look for when hiring for cross-border roles, and discover how regional organisations manage international negotiations, market entry, and commercial partnerships. You will get an honest look at the ground realities of doing business with China today, stripping away the speculation to focus on genuine commercial potential.

The session runs as an open, conversational interview with dedicated space for audience questions, giving you direct access to ask about career pathways, professional transitions, and global trade dynamics.

About James Mason

James leads the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce following a diverse career spanning manufacturing, broadcasting, professional sport, and regional development. After founding and exiting his own manufacturing enterprise, he worked extensively alongside British Embassies across China, the UAE, Kenya, and North America.

His previous roles include Chief Executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, senior executive appointments at Bradford City and Rochdale football clubs, and a decade reporting as a BBC journalist.