First Wednesday Networking
Andrew Lambert, Lead of the IoD International Trade SIG invites members and guests to an exclusive Networking Event on Wednesday 5 March at the prestigious Oriental Club, London.
The evening begins at 6pm with arrival and drinks, followed by an informal talk at 6:30pm by our guest speakers:
- Abdullah Alamsoud - Saudi Commercial Attaché to the United Kingdom
- Chris Innes-Hopkins, Director, UK-Gulf Connect Ltd
A Q&A session will follow, offering the chance to engage directly with the speakers.
The event concludes with networking from 7-8pm.
Ticket price to include drinks and light refreshments.
*Bookings close on Friday 28 February*
Speakers
Abdullah Alamsoud - Saudi Commercial Attaché to the United Kingdom
Abdullah Alamsoud is the Saudi Commercial Attaché to the United Kingdom, committed to strengthening trade and investment ties between Saudi Arabia and the UK. He previously served in the same role as the Commercial Attaché in Switzerland. With over 20 years of experience working with leading international and Saudi companies, including Microsoft, Raytheon, and Hughes Aircraft, Abdullah has developed expertise in both technical and managerial roles. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering and an MBA from the University of Geneva, both of which have supported his efforts in fostering meaningful bilateral relationships and advancing economic collaboration.
Chris Innes-Hopkins, Director, UK-Gulf Connect Ltd
Chris is a former career diplomat who has worked closely with governments and private sector acrossthe Middle East and North Africa to promote two way trade, investment and entrepreneurship.
He co-founded the Saudi British Joint Business Council (SBJBC UK) as a non-profit company in 2014, serving as CEO & UK Executive Director until September 2024 andpositioning it as a trusted partner in the increasingly important bilateral trade relationship during Saudi Vision 2030 implementation. Chris now provides independent advisory services through his company UK-Gulf Connect Ltd while retaining close links with SBJBC.
He continues to travel regularly to the region and is a keen golfer and long term resident of Richmond-upon-Thames.

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