Doing Business with China: Trade, Talent and Opportunity - A Conversation with James Mason

📅 Date: Thursday 29 October 2026
🕕 Time: 6:00–7:00pm
📍 Location: Esther Simpson Lecture Theatre 1.01, Leeds University
☕ Refreshments: Provided
💷 Sign up: The event is open to everyone, students and the public. The event is Free but pre registration is required please click here to do so

The Business Confucius Institute at the University of Leeds is delighted to welcome James Mason, Chief Executive of the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, for an informal and insightful conversation following his recent participation in Yorkshire’s largest-ever trade mission to China.

The visit brought together businesses and organisations from across the region to strengthen existing relationships, develop new connections and explore opportunities in the Chinese market.

Drawing on his experience from the mission, James will share a first-hand perspective on the realities of engaging with China — from the standout moments and unexpected insights of the visit to the opportunities he sees for Yorkshire businesses today.

What will we discuss?

🐉Inside Yorkshire’s China Trade Mission
What was it actually like on the ground? James will reflect on his experience of Yorkshire’s largest-ever trade mission to China, sharing standout moments, unexpected insights and his impressions of the atmosphere and business environment during the visit.

💼 Opportunities for Yorkshire Businesses in China
What opportunities are there for businesses across Yorkshire? James will share his perspective on the opportunities he sees for Yorkshire businesses in China today, drawing on what he experienced during the trade mission and his wider experience of international business.

🤝 Helping Yorkshire Businesses Go Global
How can local businesses successfully navigate international markets? James will discuss how the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce supports businesses looking to expand internationally, from navigating overseas markets to developing meaningful partnerships and connections abroad.

🎓 Careers, Skills and Working Internationally
What does all this mean for the next generation of graduates and professionals? James will share careers and employment advice, including insights into the skills, experiences and qualities that can help students and graduates build careers in international business and work with organisations operating across global markets.

The session will be informal and conversational, with plenty of opportunity to hear directly from James about his experiences and ask questions.

About the Speaker

James Mason
Chief Executive, West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce

James joined the Chamber in 2022 after founding and successfully exiting his own manufacturing business. His career spans business, international trade, tourism, media, sport and entrepreneurship, and he has worked extensively with British Embassies and international partners across countries including China, the USA, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kenya, Bahrain, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

He has previously served as Chief Executive of Welcome to Yorkshire and held senior executive roles at Bradford City and Rochdale Football Clubs. A qualified journalist, James also spent many years with the BBC as a news and sports reporter.

Alongside his professional career, James is actively involved in community initiatives, including as Co-Chair of Active Bradford and founder of two dementia cafés in West Yorkshire. He was awarded an Honorary Fellowship by Leeds Trinity University in 2024 in recognition of his contribution to business and the community.

Who should attend?

This event is open to University of Leeds students and staff, businesses, entrepreneurs and members of the public.

Whether you're interested in China, international trade, entrepreneurship, economic development or Yorkshire's place in the global economy, this is an opportunity to hear first-hand about one of the region's most significant recent international trade visits and what it could mean for businesses across Yorkshire.

Event Details

📅 Date: Thursday 29 October 2026
🕕 Time: 6:00–7:00pm
📍 Location: Esther Simpson Lecture Theatre 1.01, Leeds University
☕ Refreshments: Provided
💷 Cost: Free but pre registration is required please click here to do so