WHAT DOES THE WORLD TRADE CENTER OF GREATER PHILADELPHIA OFFER MEMBER BUSINESSES?

We are a global business resource. A lot of information and resources are available to companies doing international business, but this abundance can be overwhelming to small or medium-sized companies without dedicated international departments. Our mission is to provide international trade services and key global connections to companies in southeastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey to help them succeed in global markets. Our team of international trade specialists has experience in more than 75 markets and speaks nine languages. As a one-stop shop belonging to a worldwide network of world trade centers, we help a company navigate state, federal or private resources; make contact with in-country representatives; provide tailored market research and market entry strategies; and connect with local companies for advice or guidance. Some of our programs, such as the CEOs’ China Operations Club, focus on doing business in a specific country or region. Others, such as the International Design and Engineering Consortium, target global opportunities for leading industry sectors.

HOW MANY WORLD TRADE CENTERS ARE THERE WORLDWIDE?

There are more than 320 world trade centers in 96 countries, representing some 750,000 members worldwide. These centers provide a variety of different services, including temporary office space, conference room rentals, business matchmaking and translation services. In our region, we typically act as the liaison between the member company and the appropriate world trade center abroad to ensure the company receives the best service and business connections. Readers can find their nearest center through the World Trade Centers Association (www.wtcaonline.com).

WHAT ADVANTAGES DOES PHILADELPHIA BRING TO THOSE LOOKING TO DO BUSINESS INTERNATIONALLY?

Located between New York and Washington, D.C., the Greater Philadelphia region is in the heart of America’s largest East Coast business market. While the nation’s economy struggled in the past few years, our region fared reasonably well. Greater Philadelphia’s diverse economy is powered by knowledge-based sectors — life sciences, financial activities, professional and business services, information and communications technology, higher education, green and alternative energy, advanced manufacturing and logistics. The region has it all — three major ports, interstate highways, a world-class international airport and an abundance of distribution and warehouse facilities — and is poised for tremendous growth along the Delaware River in support of international trade.

Whether a local company is interested in expanding globally or a foreign-owned company is seeking to invest in the region, Greater Philadelphia offers the technology, talent, services and infrastructure that make the region a global business leader; and its world-class museums, dining, music, multicultural festivals, recreation venues and important historic sites all contribute to a great quality of life.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR CAREER.

Prior to coming to the World Trade Center of Greater Philadelphia in 2009, I served as vice chair of the Board of Directors of the Export-Import Bank of the United States. I have more than 25 years of experience in international trade and trade finance, serving as assistant secretary for trade development with the U.S. Department of Commerce and as executive director of New Jersey’s Commerce and Economic Growth Commission. I also held positions at the U.S. Travel and Tourism Administration, the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Information Agency. I am proud that I began my career owning and operating a successful small family business, where I learned valuable business and life lessons that have served me well.