A packed audience enjoyed a wealth of networking opportunities and first class entertainment from engaging guest speaker, the Reverend Richard Coles, at our annual Members’ Dinner.

The vibrant event to celebrate professionalism in international trade was attended by IOE members and fellow exporters spanning wide-ranging sectors along with key individuals and organisations that guide and support them.

Our sponsors Strong & Herd, IMA and Barclays were instrumental in making the dinner at The Royal Horseguards Hotel in London a glittering occasion and a great success.

Helping attendees kick back and enjoy themselves was the eclectic Reverend Richard Coles. Now both a respectable a vicar and well-known Radio 4 presenter, he enthralled his audience with tales of his colourful, varied past.

This includes stints as instrumentalist with both Bronski Beat and The Communards, whose massive 1986 hit, ‘Don’t Leave Me This Way’, gives him the distinction of being the only vicar to have a UK number one record.

IOE Director General, Lesley Batchelor OBE, said: “Our Members’ Dinner is an opportunity to honour our corporate, business and individual members, along with friends and colleagues, in stunning surroundings.

“As well as relaxing and enjoying themselves, our guests were able to discuss alliances and reflect on what has been a hugely significant year for the international export community. Special thanks go to our sponsors and supporters including Michael Alexander and the team at Grant Thornton and also to Russell Grazier and the team at Barclays.”

If you would like more information on the IOE’s membership, training and qualifications, please visit our website or contact us if you have any questions.