Scott, what drives you towards advising and teaching for the Global Trade Center (GTC)? I have worked with the GTC and its predecessor for over twenty years as a part of the Oregon trade service providers community. Oregon has a unique partnership of local (Global Trade Center), state (Business Oregon) and Federal (US Commercial Services) partners who service exporters through training, counseling and other services to support their success in global markets. I joined the GTC to continue to contribute to that role.What is your real world international experience? I have over thirty-five years of experience in advising companies (of all sizes) on doing business globally, both from a business development and trade policy perspective.
The Global Trade Management program starts October 3, 2019 -- LEARN MORE
What is your favorite part about working with clients? International trade can be a real boost to a company’s bottom line but being comfortable in exporting can involve a series of challenges. Helping firms overcome those obstacles, whether large or small, has always been most rewarding for me.
Tell us a short story about a time when you were most proud/excited/delighted in your role as an instructor or advisor. I will confess that I’m still new in the role as advisor but continue to be amazed by the diversity of products that Oregon firms have to offer and their entrepreneurial spirit in taking them to market.
Ok then, what kind of transformation do you expect to see in your clients during your work with them? I think the transformation is an awareness of the opportunities which global markets present tempered by a reality check on what they may be capable of accomplishing given size, skill and resources.
In your experience, what skills are needed in order for a small business owner to succeed in the world of global trade? It starts with self-awareness of your firm’s capabilities. Then a commitment to develop the capacity to service international customers when appropriate in your business plan. And then an understanding of the resources available to support your efforts.
Based on your years of experience, what do you expect you will see clients struggling with the most? Overcoming the fear of going global if and when it’s appropriate for them.
How do you plan to help them with this? By breaking down the differences between domestic and international business and helping them understand the different pieces needed to be successful. In a world of global eCommerce, the challenges are not insurmountable.
If you could give one piece of advice to all your future clients, what would it be? Know thyself. Go global when you know you’re ready.
How do you keep yourself knowledgeable and up to date on trends and industry standards in order to deliver the best quality of education? I try to keep up on the latest developments across industries and markets and am able to access market research and other information relevant to client’s interests.
What do you do for fun? Travel and a bad game of golf among other pursuits.
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