For newcomers, whether recent graduates, internationally trained professionals, mid-career transitioners, or new entrepreneurs, understanding this movement is key to paving a path in the field. Mentorships, internships, accelerators and junior roles offer an entry point into the industry’s rhythms. And the people who inhabit these spaces tend to be generous with their time and insight. Trade, after all, has always been about exchange and reciprocity, so the people more often than not reflect this spirit. 

With that context, here are some of the strongest mentorship, internship, and accelerator options available in international trade today: 

1. International Trade Centre (ITC) – SheTrades & Ye! (United Nations/WTO)

The ITC, a multilateral agency with a joint mandate with the World Trade Organization and the United Nations, runs some of the most globally respected mentorship, internship, and fellowship programs for aspiring trade professionals. Applicants undergo a detailed process involving assessments, interviews, notifications, and appointments. Those selected will become part of “an organization that supports micro, small and medium-sized businesses to compete in global and regional value chains through capacity building, training, trade-specific publications and sharing of trade intelligence.” 

Those hoping to work for the ITC, can look forward to work that “focuses on equipping micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to become more competitive in global markets. In this context, ITC translates the business implications of multilateral trade agreements for businesses, so they can understand, shape and benefit from trade rules. ITC thereby helps to build vibrant, sustainable export sectors that provide entrepreneurial opportunities, particularly for women, youth and vulnerable communities.”   

The ITC also offers mentorship through their ‘SheTrades’ initiative, which supports women-owned businesses entering or scaling in international markets. Participants receive mentorship from trade experts on topics like pricing, packaging, export compliance, and market access. For women in emerging economies, this program is often transformative, helping bridge gender gaps in global commerce. 

For younger individuals, ITC’s Ye! Community focuses on youth-led SMEs. Its mentorship network connects young founders with international business advisors, finance mentors, and export specialists.  

The initiative has a specific focus on green businesses through the Ye! Youth Ecopreneur Programme (YECO) as well.   

2. UNCTAD – EMPRETEC (40+ Countries)

UNCTAD’s EMPRETEC program is one of the longest-running entrepreneurship development initiatives in the world. Active across Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe, it blends mentorship, behavioural skills training, and practical business development. 

EMPRETEC is built on a research-backed methodology developed at Harvard that focuses on the psychological traits of successful entrepreneurs. But it goes further by breaking barriers to global market access, something many founders in developing economies struggle with. 

Participants gain mentorship from seasoned executives, trade development specialists, and local business leaders who understand cross-border challenges firsthand. 

3. OWIT International (Global)

Established in 1989, OWIT, the Organization of Women in International Trade, is one of the most established global networks in this space, spanning over 25 chapters across North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. 

What makes OWIT unique is its community: senior trade lawyers, compliance specialists, diplomats, supply chain leaders, and entrepreneurs who show up not only to teach, but to listen. 

Their 2,000-plus members “impact hundreds of millions of dollars in trade and business transactions annually. OWIT’s focus is on adding value to our corporate, mid-sized, small business and individual members around the world.”  

They also have a “Virtual Chapter” for individuals involved in international trade and business who do not have access to a local OWIT chapter where they reside or work.  

Those who wish to join, must first join a local or virtual chapter for a fee.  

What they offer:
• One-on-one mentorship
• Leadership circles
• Industry panels (trade law, global supply chains, export strategy)
• Young-professional events and workshops 

OWIT’s mission is to advance women in international trade, but its membership includes diverse professionals at different stages of their careers.  

4. Startup Canada & Startup Women (Canada)

Startup Canada’s mentorship programs are designed for entrepreneurs in the early stages of global expansion. Many are year-long programs offering structured support, 1:1 mentorship, workshops, and access to networks across the country. 

Startup Women is particularly impactful, supporting women founders with export ambition through curated mentorship sessions, industry roundtables, and direct guidance from trade advisors—including those from EDC and the Trade Commissioner Service. 

Their 1-on-1 sessions connect “women entrepreneurs with more than 100 peer-to-peer advisors and subject matter experts to build your business and provide tailored guidance. Mentorship participants take advantage of this networking opportunity to gather and discuss candidly on the challenges and opportunities entrepreneurs face.” 

Startup Canada has also partnered with Pizza Hut have partnered to support entrepreneurs with the Startup Canada Equal Slice Program.  Through funding, educational webinars, and business resources the program works to break down barriers by offering pitch competitions, tailored tools, and learning opportunities to help entrepreneurs grow and scale their businesses. 

5. Techstars (Global)

One of the world’s most influential accelerators, Techstars runs vertical programs focused on supply chain innovation, logistics and mobility, fintech and payments, sustainability and climate. 

As a global startup accelerator and venture capital firm, it provides early-stage companies with funding, mentorship, and a support network to help them grow. It works by running a three-month mentorship-driven accelerator program where selected companies receive seed capital and access to a network of investors, mentors, and partners in exchange for equity. The program includes workshops, resources, and fundraising opportunities, culminating in a final pitch event where companies can present their progress to potential investors.   

Its model is built on intensive mentorship – hundreds of meetings with investors, operators, trade advisors, and global business leaders. Those interested in being part of the community can apply to become a mentor or to find a mentor.  

6. Endeavor (Global)

Endeavor supports high-growth companies in  emerging and underserved markets.  The organization selects, supports, and invests in high-potential founders who mentor and invest in future entrepreneurs. Its 2,900+ entrepreneurs across 45+ markets have generated $88.5B in revenue and 4M+ jobs worldwide. 

7. Supply Chain & Logistics Bodies (Global)

Organizations like CILT International (Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport), ASCM (Association for Supply Chain Management), and WISTA International (Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association) offer mentorship, leadership accelerator, or junior job opportunities that combine technical depth with global networks. 

For instance, CILT states that “Some countries in our CILT family have already developed successful mentoring programmes whereby professionals are giving time back to CILT to help the next generation reach their potential.” 

Whereas, ASCM aims to enhance “knowledge, share ideas, and build connections” through their Mentoring Program. Their online networking and career development tool helps individuals “find, connect and share experiences with others.” Applicants can apply on their official website, but applicants must be ASCM members.  

WISTA, on the other hand, in conjunction with the IMO, the International Maritime Organization (a United Nations agency that governs international shipping) have a leadership accelerator program with Maritime SheEO. It is available to Women in Maritime Associations and National WISTA Associations. 

On their website, they state that “The Maritime SheEO leadership accelerator program was “specially curated and designed with the objective to 

• Offer management knowledge and skills to help women in the maritime industry move to leadership roles. 

• Enable women to become part of an active and trustworthy network of female executives who support and inspire each other along their leadership journey. 

• This program aims to equip women with the right skills to enable them to rise to leadership positions. The industry needs more women leaders, and this will also help create more role models and pave the way for more women to enter and aspire to apply for Board positions.” 

8. EDC (Export Development Canada)

For students looking to gain on the job exposure while still immersed in academia, EDC offers student positions 3 times a year. Students can opt for work or co-op opportunities, where they can expect to “dive into a fast-paced work environment with real, challenging assignments.” Most positions are finance-related, but there are also placements in management information systems, risk management, insurance, computer science, project management, communications, marketing, human resources, economics, sales and environmental science.   

EDC also offers scholarships for individuals studying international business and for community leaders who represent inclusive, diverse, and equitable workforces. 

Movement defines progress in the field, so keep pushing forward

Global trade will continue to evolve—its rules rewritten by geopolitics, its logistics reshaped by climate realities, its transactions transformed by technology. But one thing remains unchanged: the field is powered by people who are willing to learn and willing to share what they know. 

For newcomers, the path forward may not always be linear, but it is undeniably open. Start with a mentor. Apply for the internship. Join the accelerator, the chapter, the workshop, the mission. Get accredited trade training and certification. Somewhere in that mix, the first opportunity becomes the second, the second becomes the third, and a career begins to take shape. 

In a sector defined by constant motion, your next step doesn’t need to be perfect. It simply needs to be taken. 

The post Where to find mentorships, internships, and projects in global trade—A practical guide for newcomers appeared first on Trade Ready.

And if you think about it, the human need to exchange or barter for goods and services has always been essential to our survival. It has allowed us to grow, expand, diversify, and join forces with other like-minded humans and nations—and in this basic notion, we can find the kernel of what keeps trade unified today.

We still need to cooperate and exchange goods and services with other countries and people, because it not only helps us survive, but ultimately to flourish.

Though the job market is increasingly difficult to navigate, knowing the basic reasons for why we always have and always will exchange goods and services can provide direction and relief.

Yes, trade today is not the methodical industry it once was. It moves at the speed of digital platforms, automated customs systems, AI-driven forecasting tools, and geopolitical realignments that can disrupt an entire region overnight.

Yes, the skills that people need to have to keep up with these transformations are manifold. Yes, there are multiple economic, political, and environmental disruptions in the mix. But, people and countries still need to trade, and this will never stop. 

So, if you’re looking for a job in the global trade market right now, there are some great ways to get started in the field, first and foremost by getting the right training.

And from there developing on-the-job experience through internships, mentorships, or junior roles. Let’s not forget the increasing power of networking in today’s tempestuous hiring waters too. 

Starting from scratch in the field of international trade? Read our tips below and begin carving your path to a profession that’s always evolving yet as enduring as civilization itself.  

Know your learning options

There are many learning options for business in general. These range from highly specialized courses on individual topics like Incoterms or customs compliance, to broader selections, like general business administration, or project management through degrees like an MBA or certifications like the PMP.  

For newcomers who want a broad understanding of global trade in addition to a practical roadmap for how to start, grow, and manage a business across borders, the FITTskills program and the CITP®|FIBP® designation provide one of the more structured and widely recognized pathways available, a sentiment that Daiana Leandro, Customer Success Specialist, Ocean Sonics Ltd. agrees with.  

Just as lawyers and doctors have recognized professional standards, Daiana ventures that the CITP® designation gives international trade professionals a recognized benchmark of expertise, ethics, and commitment. 

“I think that having a professional designation is important to back you up. To show that you’re committed to what you’re doing,” says Daiana.

For professionals like Julia (Xia) Zhao, CITP – President, Raintree International Trade Co. learning about international trade through validated courses also adds confidence to your arsenal.  

“Don’t just work hard. Educate yourself and work harder,” she recommends, adding that completing the FITTskills program gave her a better understanding of the rationale behind decisions and their execution, and provided a significant boost to her ability to collaborate with her colleagues in different roles within the industry. 

The FITTskills Program: What it covers

Rather than offering theory alone, the FITTskills program breaks global business down into a practical and straightforward set of steps, strategies, and skills that all international business professionals must know and execute in real life.  

While some business programs emphasize high-level theory, FITTskills focuses on the practical side of doing business internationally. For product and service exporters – including technology companies – this includes topics like exporting digital products and services, navigating international compliance and procurement requirements, managing global partnerships, understanding market-entry considerations, and working across different regulatory and cultural environments.

For those who advise businesses in international trade it helps them understand the challenges and needs of their clients to be able to meaningfully support them. It’s designed to help professionals apply international business concepts directly to real-world operations, sales, and global growth.

The program’s six courses mirror the lifecycle of an international business venture, from assessing feasibility all the way to executing sales across borders.  

Learning online: flexibility for a world that never stops moving

Many who enter the field today do so while balancing full-time jobs, family responsibilities, or immigration transitions. For these learners, the ability to train online—on their own time—can be the difference between entering the field and never getting started. 

Sajal Takhi, CITP, provides an illustrative example of this. 

Despite balancing a demanding career in logistics and pursuing a Master’s in Finance, Sajal was able to complete two FITTskills courses. It was such an enriching learning experience that he decided to complete the entire FITTskills program. He went on to apply for his Certified International Trade Professional (CITP®|FIBP®) designation, understanding its ability to open international doors and add credibility to his CV. 

“These courses significantly deepened my knowledge, allowing me to apply advanced analytical skills directly to my work in logistics. This enhanced my ability to make data-driven decisions, mitigate risks, and optimize costs, ultimately contributing to the growth of the company and adding value to the broader community.”

In-class instruction: where conversation becomes understanding

For others, learning becomes more powerful when it happens in a room full of different perspectives and background and includes the face-to-face interactions, discussions, and hands-on projects that come with in-class learning. 

Teniola Animat Oke, winner of the International Business Plan Award at the 2024 FITT Educational Awards notes the value for her in going through the process to complete her project. 

“Completing this project was incredibly rewarding,” Teniola said. “It pushed me to integrate everything I learned – market analysis, financial planning, risk management, and cultural adaptation – into an actionable plan. It reinforced my passion for international business and my confidence in tackling complex, multifaceted challenges.”

Extended learning: where skills turn into opportunity

CITPs often emphasize mentorship as a turning point in their careers. 

Audrey Marie-Nely – Associate Vice-President, Banking, RBCx, saw the benefit of mentorship firsthand, through a mentorship program facilitated by FITT: 

“Before moving to Canada, I didn’t realize the power of mentorship. Through a FITT mentorship program, I was matched with an experienced trade professional who provided invaluable guidance. Even though the formal program has ended, we still keep in touch.”

She adds, “Mentorship is a way to give back and help others navigate the complexities of global trade. It’s something I plan to continue throughout my career.”

Networking: A powerful tool for growth and connection

Networking as a practice has undergone a wide-ranging transformation in the past few years. COVID-19 saw the rise on online networking events, but post-pandemic, in-person events gained back momentum as people realized they missed the subtle yet irreplicable business nuances of connecting with other people in person, face to face. 

Whether in-person or online, networking still remains fundamental to career growth, especially in the international trade field. These connections are critical to finding strategic partners and contacts across borders, and for job hunters, they’re also essential for meeting potential employers in the field.  

Julien Rosan, CITP and Trade Commissioner, Global Affairs Canada, agrees wholeheartedly. At the beginning of his career, Julien relied on his knowledge and interpersonal skills to find a job. But after many years in the field, he now sees how crucial it is to network, seek referrals, and build professional relationships. Nowadays, when he receives LinkedIn requests from students seeking advice or internship connections, he makes it a point to remain as approachable and helpful as ever.  

“I love this proactive approach and always keep my door open as I can see myself in them 10 years ago.”

Internships: more than a foot in the door

Even a short internship can ignite a new career. Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey, Ursula Burns and Steve Spielberg all performed internships, with many of these experiences launching the legends into their lifelong careers. 

Ian Murdoch, CITP, experienced the benefits of internships firsthand, when he travelled to Kenya for a six-month internship through a program at the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs at Carleton University. 

Through his experience, he assisted a coffee farm with sustainable business development and international trade. This opportunity sparked his interest in the field as it offered him a chance to work with people from around the world and contribute to an important cause like sustainable growth and development. The experience also accelerated his passion for international trade, a profession that he still pursues as a Trade Commissioner at Global Affairs Canada. 

Learning on the job: letting the job teach you

Those who stay in the field long enough often say the same thing: the work itself becomes the teacher. 

“In the beginning, everything seems overwhelming” says Ramon Pinto, CITP, President & CEO, SOLUPAPER LLC whose $60K startup eventually evolved into a multimillion-dollar cross-border company. But with work and patience, success can come: 

“Instead of taking quick, expensive routes, we focused on sustainable expansion, reinvesting our profits and seeking financing only when absolutely necessary. It wasn’t easy, and many times it felt like we wouldn’t make it, but every financial hurdle taught us to be more resilient and manage our resources efficiently. The key was always keeping the long-term vision in mind, knowing that each sacrifice today would bring us closer to success tomorrow.”  

He describes the trade career as a constant exercise in judgment; reading markets, picking partners, understanding risks, sensing change before it arrives. 

“We made decisions based on data analysis and trends, and we weren’t afraid to invest in areas that seemed uncertain. Today, that vision has allowed us to maintain a solid sales trajectory and continue moving forward despite industry shifts.”

He adds that,

“If you never stop learning you increase your opportunity to grow, adapt, and improve.”

Carving a path is a unique experience for each individual, but effort always drives success

Across a myriad of professional trade careers, it’s clear that no one path is identical. Some enter the field through in-class instruction, while others take on mentorships and internships.  

And yet, despite these differing routes, advice rooted in personal effort remains parallel: 

• Start with foundational training to validate expertise and build confidence. 
• Seek out real experiences, even entry-level ones, that expose you to how goods, money, and decisions operate on a day-to-day level. 
• Build relationships and contacts, as these connections open business and career opportunities 
• Find a mentor, and someday, become one to learn from and contribute to a deep community of experts 
• Stay curious, and keep learning to stay ahead of industry transformations 

Much like the evolution of trade itself, progress, even in the face of setbacks, is attainable. You just need to remain patient and keep moving forward. 

The post How to start a career in international trade from scratch – tips, advice, and strategies from professionals appeared first on Trade Ready.

So, while it may be a bit cliche, let’s consult the experts here so we have a nice clear starting point. 

The Cambridge English Dictionary defines a professional as “a person who has the type of job that needs a high level of education and training.” It also lists the definition as “someone who has worked hard in the same type of job for a long time and has become skilled at dealing with any problem that might happen.” 

Aptly, when developing the CITP, FITT carefully chose this word to anchor its acronym. Every CITP that FITT designates has amassed a valuable amount of industry knowledge, honed practical skills and proven experience in the field. Most importantly, they are highly skilled at dealing with any international trade challenge that may arise – increasingly valuable in today’s shifting trade environment. 

But when you think about the word “professional,” the definition in your head is likely slightly different from both the Cambridge English Dictionary’s and everyone else’s, and that’s because professionals come from all over the world, from all walks of life.  

Different pathways, different journeys, all CITPs

A quick browse through the CITP Spotlights stories and you’ll find individuals who began their careers as eager students with clear-cut visions of becoming international trade professionals, and you’ll find stories of people who discovered the designation later in their careers, either while working in the field or after making a career pivot because something sparked their passion for international trade. There’s not one narrow pathway to earning that high level of professionalism and expertise within the field of international trade. And therefore, there’s more than one pathway to earning the CITP. 

Multiple pathways provide flexibility and reduce barriers to the certification, making the process more accessible to a broader range of qualified candidates while maintaining the certification’s integrity. It allows FITT to recognize diverse qualifications and experiences, providing more inclusive access to the certification. 

Take Audrey Marie-Nely, for instance, who always knew she wanted a career in international business.

From a young age, she had a deep curiosity for different cultures, languages, and global markets. Hailing from France, her academic and professional journey took her around the globe, where she explored the complexities of international trade and innovation. From there, earning her CITP designation was a natural process. She knew that the FITTskills program would update her knowledge and expand her practical skills, giving her current-day insights and real-world applications to immediately integrate into her work, and was a pathway to validating her overall professionalism. She is now Associate Vice-President of Banking at RBCx.
 

Nil Özçelik Razavi, PhD, on the other hand, learned about the CITP after moving to Canada from Turkey to complete her doctoral research in translation studies. 

After finding career opportunities in academia limited, she pivoted her career trajectory and became a Trade Expert at the Commercial Office of the Turkish Embassy in Ottawa—broadening and validating her expertise by taking FITTskills training and then earning her CITP designation this year.  

Bolstering his 15 years of international trade experience, Sumit Khanna took a different route and set his sights on the CITP designation through the executive path, a designation option specifically made for experienced executive-level roles.

He understood that, in addition to his stellar work background, credibility in Canada’s competitive business environment required more than just experience. He is currently Managing Partner at White Cruz International and Business Management Program Creator and Instructor at A1 Global College of Health, Business, and Technology. 

Where all pathways converge

While the pathways to becoming a CITP are different for each person, the rock-solid validation administered by FITT is always the same. And this is where all definitions for the word “professional” converge onto the same level playing field. 

There is a trust and confidence that people require when working with someone who is a true accredited professional. And while many people say they are professionals, not all of them have the certification to back up their claims. Let’s just say, Frank Abagnale, portrayed as a serial fraudster in the movie Catch Me If You Can, most certainly wouldn’t have been able to pose as a CITP with FITT’s rigorous standards at the helm. 

What are the different pathways to earning your CITP?

* Pathway 3 is currently unavailable. 

FITT designed its pathway system to include the many different stages of a professional’s life. Candidates must first meet all CITP eligibility requirements before applying for the designation.  

There are multiple pathways to the CITP.

You can: 

1. Earn your FITT Diploma and meet the work experience requirement for this pathway. To do this, you must successfully complete the FITTskills Program requirements, either through FITT or a FITT Educational Partner, and complete at least 3 years of full-time international business experience related to one or more of the 15 CITP competency categories.  
2. Earn a relevant educational credential by completing a minimum 2-year post-secondary international business program or 1-year post-graduate international business program. On this pathway, your education and work experience (requires 3+ years of full-time work experience) combined, assessed through a portfolio, must cover all 15 of the CITP competency categories. 
3. Meet the work experience requirement of FITT’s executive pathway. This requires having 10 years of full-time work experience in international business related to all 15 CITP competency categories in executive-level roles.  
4. Meet the work experience requirement of FITT’s CITP Exam pathway. This includes at least 5 years of full-time work experience in international business related to one or more of the 15 CITP competency categories, followed by the successful completion of the CITP exam if your application is approved. 

Professional validation backed by industry-developed standards

Whichever pathway you choose, you can rest assured that your work experience and depth of professional knowledge will be held to the highest standards of validation. This is a rigorous process that FITT takes pride in because professionals should not be able to call themselves professionals without meeting industry-backed standards.

Learn how standards are developed, validated, and compiled in FITT’s Body of Knowledge

For international trade professionals, the FITT CITP Competency Profile sets forth these standards, and it encompasses 15 major competency categories, 26 skill areas, 78 subskills, over 1,100 performance and knowledge statements.  

Suffice it to say, the word “professional” is one that we take seriously at FITT, and we’re proud to do so. Ask any one of our CITPs, and you’ll likely see that same gleam of pride when it comes to their ownership of the word too—it’s easy to see why. 

Learn more about FITT’s CITP pathways 

If you’re not sure which pathway suits your experience, or think you may qualify for more than one pathway, take our CITP®|FIBP® Next Step Connector Quiz. You’ll learn the fastest way to earn your CITP certification.  

The post More than one way to validate your professional status: CITP pathways explained appeared first on Trade Ready.

These books cover vital subjects like supply chain management, geopolitics, leadership, business strategies, the AI economy, cultural diversity, and the historical context of global trade, offering valuable perspectives for navigating the complexities of the worldwide market.

1. The Culture Map: Breaking Through the Invisible Boundaries of Global Business by Erin Meyer

Erin Meyer’s book “The Culture Map” explores cultural differences in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of understanding nuances for effective communication and collaboration. She introduces “authentic flexibility” for adapting to diverse cultures while staying true to oneself. The book provides insights on virtual communication in multicultural teams and offers practical tips for successful cross-cultural interactions. Meyer’s work is a valuable resource for enhancing intercultural competence and succeeding in diverse professional environments.

2. The Value of Everything: Making and Taking in the Global Economy by Mariana Mazzucato

The Value of Everything” by Mariana Mazzucato critiques how economic value is measured and the blurred line between value creation and extraction in the global financial system. The book examines cases from Silicon Valley to pharma, illustrating how this confusion impacts innovation and inequality. Mazzucato calls for a re-evaluation of capitalism, public policy, and value measurement to promote sustainable economic growth. She challenges the idea that market prices reflect true value and argues for a re-politicization of value as a social and political concept. Professionals importing or exporting are well versed in the myriad of complexities in valuing products, services and components. This book offers a fascinating perspective on the whole system.

3. How the World Ran Out of Everything: Inside the Global Supply Chain by Peter S. Goodman

The book “How the World Ran Out of Everything” by journalist Peter S. Goodman explores the complexities and vulnerabilities of the global supply chain. Through gripping storytelling, Goodman exposes the intricate pathways of manufacturing and transportation that bring products to our doorsteps, while also unveiling the ruthless business practices that have left local communities vulnerable to disruptions. Highlighting recent events like the pandemic-induced shortages, Goodman illustrates how financial interests, market opacity, and deteriorating working conditions have placed the supply chain on the brink of collapse. By following the journeys of individuals from factories in Asia to striking railroad workers in Texas, Goodman advocates for a reformation of the supply chain to ensure reliability and resilience.

4. Scale: The Universal Laws of Growth, Innovation, Sustainability, and the Pace of Life, in Organisms, Cities, Economies, and Companies by Geoffrey West

Geoffrey West, a pioneering physicist in complexity science, unveils the hidden laws governing the life cycle of diverse systems, from living organisms to cities. Contrary to the complexity of these systems, West’s discoveries reveal an underlying simplicity that unites them. By applying the rigor of physics to questions of biology and mortality, West found that mammals, despite their diversity, follow scaling laws that relate their size to various biological characteristics. This groundbreaking insight extends beyond biology to include cities and businesses, where similar laws of scalability apply. West’s work offers a unique perspective on the fundamental principles governing diverse systems, relevant for professionals working in global business. “Scale” is a captivating journey through fundamental natural laws that connect us all in profound yet straightforward ways, illuminating how cities, companies, and life itself are governed by the same principles.

5. Pivot: The Only Move That Matters is Your Next One by Jenny Blake

If change is the only constant, let’s get better at it.

In “Pivot: The Art and Science of Reinventing Your Career and Life,” Jenny Blake, a former career development manager at Google, shares practical strategies for navigating career transitions effectively. In today’s dynamic economy, where job roles change frequently and career plateaus are common, Jenny Blake introduces the concept of the “pivot” as a way to methodically make your next career move. Drawing from her experience in Silicon Valley and as a career consultant, Blake presents the Pivot Method, a framework for taking small, strategic steps towards a new direction in your career. Whether you’re considering a new role, starting your own business, or transitioning to a new industry, this book provides actionable advice to help you move forward with confidence.

With practical guidance and real-life examples, Blake empowers readers to embrace change and chart a path towards greater career satisfaction and success.

6. The International Business Culture Pathfinder: A Practical Guide to Navigating Cultural Differences in Global Markets by Marvin Hough

Written by experienced CITP Marvin Hough, The International Business Culture Pathfinder is a collection of concise business culture guides for 11 countries, including Brazil, Canada, China, UAE, South Africa and more.

This book provides a comprehensive overview of each nation’s business landscape, cultural traits, and practical scenarios demonstrate the impact of culture on business. Whether you are a seasoned global business professional or just embarking on your international journey, this resource is indispensable for grasping negotiations, communication norms, relationships, management approaches, and time management in varied cultural settings.

7. Power And Prediction: The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence by Avi Goldfarb, Ajay Agrawal and Joshua Gans

In “Power and Prediction: The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence,” Avi Goldfarb explores the “Between Times” of AI evolution, highlighting the necessity for systemic changes in decision-making processes within organizations. Despite the transformative potential of AI, its widespread adoption has been delayed, akin to past technological revolutions such as electricity and computing. Goldfarb stresses the need for complementary innovations alongside AI advancements.

8. Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts by Brené Brown

Leadership goes beyond titles, status, and authority. A true leader is someone who takes on the responsibility of identifying potential in individuals and ideas and has the bravery to nurture that potential.

Renowned author Brené Brown, a four-time #1 New York Times bestseller, has dedicated decades to studying emotions and experiences that add value to our lives. For the past seven years, she has collaborated with transformative leaders and teams worldwide. In her book “Dare to Lead,” she delves into how courageous leadership entails recognizing potential, staying open-minded, sharing power, and embracing vulnerability. The book stresses the importance of cultivating human qualities like empathy, connection, and courage in a society dominated by scarcity and fear. It presents four essential skill sets for courageous leadership and advocates for choosing courage over comfort.

From the humblest middle manager to the CEO of a fortune 500 company, anyone who wants to lead effectively could learn from this book.

9. Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order: Why Nations Succeed and Fail by Ray Dalio

A few years ago, Ray Dalio observed unique political and economic conditions, leading to his exploration of repeating patterns in wealth and power shifts over the last 500 years.

“Principles for Coping with the Evolving World Order” delves into the most tumultuous economic and political eras in history to explain why the future is expected to be markedly distinct from our own experiences, yet reminiscent of past occurrences.

Ray Dalio discusses unique circumstances leading to global changes and offers advice on navigating upcoming challenges. Dalio’s analysis covers major empires and historical patterns to provide practical principles for preparing for the future.

For professionals working in international trade, navigating the turbulent geopolitical and economic environment is part of the job. Learning more context for how things evolve may just help you get ahead of the curve.

10. Prisoners of Geography: Ten Maps That Expla in Everything About the World by Tim Marshall

Journalist Tim Marshall’s book “Prisoners of Geography” explores how physical characteristics of countries like Russia, China, the US, Latin America, the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Japan, Korea, and Greenland and the Arctic, their strengths, vulnerabilities, and leaders’ decisions. In ten chapters and ten maps, the book delves into geopolitics and how geography shapes global strategies and historical events. It highlights the impact of geography on nations’ destinies and provides a fresh perspective on world affairs, something that is incredibly helpful for anyone doing business in foreign markets.

Knowledge is power, and continuous learning is the cornerstone of success in the evolving world of international trade. Share with us your top reads in 2024!

The post Top 10 books for international trade professionals to read in 2024 appeared first on Trade Ready.

Arbinder’s career in international trade began when she started working with a logistics company in India to fulfill the 1-year work experience requirement for her undergraduate degree. What began as a chance job soon turned into her preferred career choice.

It was this very first role that offered her an unmatched experience to explore all sectors, industries, markets and cultures.

“This was globalization at its best. I’ve been a learner all along and my job became my passion.”

Within a few years, her career trajectory was taking off as she found herself taking on positions of authority at just 23 years of age. It was then that she decided to pursue an Aviation MBA from Concordia University. She applied for and was awarded the women’s scholarship, and this brought her to Montreal in 1997.

A career journey enriched by some amazing experiences

Among Arbinder’s most memorable career experiences was a “meet-n-click” with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at a round-table discussion with women executives, which she facilitated. She was impressed by his ideas on women’s empowerment and found it heartening to see a country being led by a leader who was so open and inclusive in his views.

Her other favorite experiences include a 3-week trip around the world to meet and interview key travel and tourism players in 9 countries on 4 continents as part of a research project for the International Air Transport Association, meeting with Universal Studios officials during a ride at their Orlando Park, and participating in the Canadian Aviation delegation to discuss strategies with Indian Government officials.

Adding to her list of cherished experiences was flying across the Atlantic in the cockpit and viewing the Northern Lights up close and personal, and the time she flew a full-flight simulator over the Himalayas to get a birds eye-view before her trek to the base camp of Mt Everest.

Identified opportunities for Canadian companies to build successful partnerships

Among Arbinder’s proudest accomplishments is the trade mission she organized as  Trade Commissioner (Innovation) to help Canadian companies find partners for Smart Cities projects in India. The end result was a 1-week curated exploratory program for these companies which resulted in several successful partnerships.

She offers a piece of advice that’s helped her achieve success to those getting started in international business:

“Network, network, network! Succeeding in business is all about making connections.”

Gaining the skills and certification of a leader in her field career growth

Arbinder then decided it was time to take the next logical step to furthering her professional expertise by signing up for FITTskills courses in international trade.

“Taking each FITTskills course was like building blocks. It kept adding on to my current skill and knowledge level. The linkages between the topics in different courses helped as an auto-revision.”

“I particularly enjoyed the International Market Entry Strategies course as the topics focused on strategies, alliances and research.”

Arbinder emphatically states that she would “definitely, absolutely, most certainly” recommend FITTskills courses to other professionals working in international business.

After completing her FITT Diploma in International Trade, Arbinder felt she needed to back her qualifications by earning an industry-recognized designation that would prove her competence as a global trade practitioner.

She soon applied for and was awarded the CITP®|FIBP® designation and is proud to be associated with the “Stamp of Excellence that this designation bears.”

“Just like Neil Armstrong felt and quoted, I was elated, ecstatic and extremely pleased that I was successful.’’

Arbinder is currently working as Trade Commissioner – ICT and investment at Global Affairs Canada, a role she has been successfully handling for the last three and a half years.

Her career in international business and trade now spans more than two decades and she has come a long way from her first job as an undergraduate, when she first developed her passion for this profession.

How do you foresee your CITP designation playing a role in your future career?

“The CITP designation not only highlights my commitment to international trade, but also validates my professional competency in this space.”

With her amazing experience spanning two continents, coupled with proven professional expertise and equipped with the elite CITP designation, we can’t wait to hear what Arbinder tackles next.

The post CITP Spotlight: Arbinder Pal – Trade Commissioner – ICT and Investment appeared first on Trade Ready.

It isn’t a stretch to imagine that fate led Richard Tremblay to his career in international trade. As a student at the University of Windsor, Richard would find himself walking past several Customs Brokers offices to get to his parking space near the Ambassador Bridge, which joins Canada to the USA.

This daily routine piqued his curiosity of the  Customs Broker profession, and he decided to take a chance and apply for a position when he saw a hiring sign. Richard explains,

“One day I stepped into the biggest building and applied for a job as a Customs Broker, which I got. That was the beginning of a long career in international trade.”

The fall of the Berlin Wall and the beginning of major change in international trade

In 1989, which was to prove a momentous year in the history of Germany, Richard had set up an office in Dusseldorf to coordinate between his customer and vendors in Eastern Europe, to ensure timely delivery of orders into the USA and Canada. The fall of the Wall, in November 1989, directly impacted his work, and set in motion a series of events that now form some of his favorite career stories.

With increasing numbers of East Germans migrating to the west, it resulted in new supply chain challenges and the need to bridge gaps in skills and learning.

“As the world changed and the wall came down and the European Economic Community evolved, a new customer needed our service offering and we became an integral part of their strategy.”

The company had operations in 18 countries to help deal with restrictions on border crossings and with adherence to specific government regulations. The lifting of all barriers opened the door to greater trade opportunities, necessitating the setting up of an efficient supply chain process.

Richard’s proudest accomplishment includes the elaborate and onerous task of redesigning their distribution and transport network.

“This analysis and rollout took 3 years to fully execute but it made them a competitive provider of consumer products in Europe.”

A valuable piece of career advice

“My advice would be to learn as many languages as you can. It can expand your career in areas of the world.”

Other than English, Richard can speak some French and even has a smattering of German from his time in Germany.

Formalizing credentials by applying for the CITP®|FIBP® designation

After spending many years in the international supply chain business, which saw him visit and work in several countries, Richard decided that it was time for him to formalize his professional credentials.

On being asked why he chose the CITP (Certified International Trade Professional) designation:

“Once I started teaching, I learned about the CITP and wanted a designation that was global. I wanted the CITP because it was international rather than regional.”

Why Richard chose teaching as a career

At a conference, Richard’s friend suggested he try out a part time teaching role. Richard started with one class a week and absolutely loved it making him realize that this was something he would certainly like to do more of.

“As I’m teaching the courses I’m using my real-world experiences that developed my career in international trade,and my students really like relating what they are learning with real life challenges.”

The CITP designation adds a special significance to his current role as professor where he teaches Supply Chain courses designed by FITT (Forum for International Trade Training) at Conestoga College in Kitchener, ON and part time at Mohawk College, Hamilton.

While the schools have been temporarily closed over the past few weeks, Richard has pivoted to teaching his students remotely through online classes, and kept them engaged in professional development by encouraging them to attend virtual learning events such as FITT’s #TradeElite Twitter chats.

With solid industry backed credentials, a vast repertoire of real-world examples and a sound knowledge of the subject matter, he makes the learning experience an enriching one for his students.

“I am very proud to add CITP to my credentials on my resume, signature, and business cards.”

Equipped with an elite designation and a rich professional experience, Richard is a certified expert in his field, having to his credit an impressive success story that shows no signs of fading.

The post CITP Spotlight: Richard Tremblay – Professor, Global Supply Chain appeared first on Trade Ready.

Maxim was pursuing undergraduate studies in political science, when an internship at the Russian-German Chamber of Commerce in Moscow helped him realize his true calling.

“After just a couple of weeks of work with German companies looking to enter the Russian market, I realized that international business offers a multitude of exciting career opportunities and that I had the skill set necessary to continue in the field,” Maxim says.

After moving to Canada and completing a Master’s at UBC, Maxim joined the Swiss Business Hub Canada to assist with several B2B events for Canadian and Swiss companies. Getting an opportunity to meet and interact with professionals across diverse industries  confirmed his interest in international business. His current role at a specialized market research company gave him the opportunity to grow his competence and skills to an altogether new level.

Speaking four languages in one day

What truly sets Maxim apart is his flair for picking up new languages, which proves to be a huge asset in his professional life. He began learning foreign languages in high school where he learnt German, English and French. Some conversational Spanish is his newest acquisition.

NASCO Conference in Columbus, OH (September 2019). With Bruce Takefman, President of Research Consultants International

“I have always had a big passion for foreign languages, so being able to put the full spectrum of my linguistic skills to use is very rewarding.”

His favorite career experience involved fully leveraging his linguistic talent while preparing for the visit of a Canadian delegation to Hannover Messe, the world’s largest industrial trade show. There, he had the chance to use each of the languages in his repertoire every single day while identifying companies with expansion plans for Canada and coordinating face-to-face meetings with them at the show.

Making major impacts for his clients

What’s been most fulfilling for Maxim is the fact that he has had the chance to work with a large variety of economic development organizations, spanning a range of levels – from small rural communities in Canada all the way up to a U.S. Governor’s office and a national trade agency in Europe.

“And most importantly, I am proud of the fact that many of the connections I have facilitated over the years turned out to be real investment opportunities, including a major data center project that ended up being located in one of my client’s territory a year after I set up the introductory meeting.”

A valuable piece of career advice

“It’s important to stay up to date and know what’s going on in your clients’ target industries . Without that knowledge it’s hard to understand what motivates companies’ investment decisions and how to best leverage your client’s value proposition to help them attract the desirable type of investment .”

This was what motivated Maxim to enroll in  FITTskills courses as he realized that although he had gained practical experience, there were still certain gaps in his knowledge that needed to be addressed, if he wished to truly advance in his career.

SelectUSA Investment Summit in Washington DC (June 2018). Maxim with colleagues from Research Consultants International

The role of ongoing professional development in a successful career

For Maxim, originally a  political science graduate, FITTskills courses exposed him to much needed aspects of international trade that he wasn’t familiar with  such as international trade finance and global supply chain management. Equipped with this knowledge, he could develop a deeper understanding of  the complexities of international business and the various factors influencing corporate decision making.

“FITTskills online courses were an excellent opportunity, not just to improve my understanding of a variety of topics that I was already familiar with to different extents, but also to gain brand new knowledge, thus broadening my professional horizons.”

Being the linguist that he is, Maxim challenged himself by taking half the courses in English and the other half in French to get a taste of what it was to function as a bilingual professional.

“International Market Entry Strategies was one of my favorite FITTskills courses. As someone who speaks to companies from around the world about their international growth and expansion plans on a daily basis, I found this course extremely useful and relevant.”

“It provides great insights into what drives businesses to enter new markets, how they choose the right expansion strategy by analyzing a whole range of factors, and finally how they implement their plan step by step.”

The impact of a professional designation on career aspirations

Maxim completed his FITT Diploma in International Trade and decided to apply for the  CITP®|FIBP® designation, recognizing the designation’s value to demonstrate his industry-backed competence as a global trade professional to his management, colleagues and clients.

He had heard about the unique designation through his network and from professionals at Global Affairs Canada who confirmed its value within the Canadian Government.

“Earning the CITP designation after almost two years of studying felt very rewarding. I am proud to join the ranks of Certified International Trade Professionals and confident that this designation will play an important role in my career both in the short or long term.”

As Maxim builds solid experience in his current role as Executive Director, Client Services at Research Consultants International, his knowledge, expertise and credentials make for the ideal combination to propel his career to greater heights of success.

The post CITP Spotlight: Maxim Nevzorov – Executive Director, Client Services appeared first on Trade Ready.