This month’s International Trade Matters Spotlight feature is on former Devon MP Oliver Colvile and his ambition to be a global trading ambassador.
By International Public Relations Specialist Kevin Kelway
AFTER ten years of campaigning, and seven of those as the Conservative MP for Plymouth Sutton & Devonport, Oliver Colvile has had time to reflect on his life and career since losing his parliamentary seat in 2017.
“I was very proud in representing one of the UK’s naval dockyards, and a commercial international port that is looking to grow over the next decades – and especially with our new FREE PORT status.”
“Plymouth University and Plymouth Marjon are both highly regarded for their global educational reputations, and our marine science and research are second to none.”
“I was a busy MP and served as a Parliamentary Aide to Ministers at the Ministry of Defence and to the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, and also a trustee of Medic Malawi – that helps fund a medical centre in central Malaw,” he said.
“As an MP, I was a vocal champion for Plymouth and the South West region in supporting local businesses in trade – and I’ve built up a network of political contacts around the world – in Africa, USA, and around Europe.”
“Yes, I’m still very much part of the Conservative Party-political family and passionate about battling for South West issues and our businesses looking at international trading opportunities.”
“I’ve been watching International Trade Matters grow into an incredible service supporting UK businesses across global markets – and I believe can offer some special value in my links in Africa, North America, and the European Union,” he said.
“I’ve seen many other colleagues lose their seats in the 2017 general election and some struggling to find a role after the traumatic loss of losing. Politics can be a cruel arena, and there is no sympathy for an ex-MP but, but I’ve picked myself up, dusted myself down, and got back into the ring again.”
Oliver lives in Plymouth’s Millfields in the historic Stonehouse area, and runs his own marketing company specialising in regeneration and development opportunities. “I’m very keen to develop trading opportunities for South-West and UK businesses around the world, and the continent of Africa is definitely an area I’m looking to support through exporting opportunities. I am well connected to the Government’s Parliamentary trade envoys and keen to use this network of people to benefit Plymouth and the South West region in our post-Brexit world,” said Mr Colvile.
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