Meet the Experts in the North East

Our expert advisers are here to guide and support your journey to international success, helping you sell your products and services to global markets with confidence.

Business Support Advisers - North East Growth Hub

The North East Growth Hub has a team of expert Business Support Advisers equipped to support you and your business. Regardless of your business size or stage, they can:

• Help tackle your business challenges
• Identify your business opportunities
• Offer impartial advice and guidance
• Connect you to the right business support
• Help you to access finance and funding.
• Signpost you to dedicated toolkits on topics including markets and trade

The North East Growth Hub has helped hundreds of businesses across the region and the positive impact it can have on a business is huge. Book a free appointment with a Business Support Adviser to start your international trade journey.

Philip Blacklock - Department for Business and Trade 

Philip Blacklock is an International Trade Adviser (ITA) based in Durham, with a regional focus on businesses based there, as well as Sunderland. He began his career at the North East Chamber of Commerce where he developed a strong foundation in business development and international trade. His journey into the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) began through a delivery partnership with UK Trade and Investment, eventually leading to his current role as an ITA since 2019.

He works closely with businesses in his region, tailoring support to their specific needs and growth potential. He also specialises in the Technology and Financial & Professional Services sectors, helping shape trade missions and strategic initiatives internally and supporting businesses from the industry.

Philip emphasises the importance of trust and long-term relationships. “These businesses are people’s dreams and livelihoods,” he says, underscoring the human impact of his work.