Networking Holiday Soirée - Hosted by FITT in partnership with Scotiabank

Whether you are a student, international business professional, or CITP, take advantage of this exceptional opportunity to network, share ideas, and gain new insights on current issues in international trade.

A Keynote address will be provided by Paloma Healey, Director, Strategy Trade Services and Financial Institutions, Global Transaction Banking, Scotiabank. More information will be available shortly.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2009
5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites
Cambridge Room
111 Cooper Street
Ottawa, ON K2P 2E3

Complimentary reception for FITT Members*
$20.00 per Non-Members plus GST

Space is limited
Registration REQUIRED**
Register: www.fitt.ca/resources/ottawareception.htm

We look forward to seeing you in Ottawa!


*Please note that your membership status will be verified following your registration. If you are uncertain of your status, contact FITT.
**Registrations will be accepted until we have reached maximum capacity for the room.

International growth of FITT programs requires new label for professional designation

COMMUNIQUÉ - November 12, 2009

FITT is launching a new label for its professional designation for use in international markets. The new label for the professional designation will be FITT International Business Professional – FIBP. Success and growth in delivery of FITT products and services internationally has necessitated this change. The CITP will continue to be used in Canada. For more information please read the full communiqué below.

Ottawa, ON – The growth, recognition and demand for FITT’s programs and services internationally is resulting in exceptional opportunities for FITT, its members and Certified International Trade Professionals (CITPs). FITT’s strategic plan has outlined international growth as a key element in our commitment to expand the presence, profile and partnership opportunities available to the organization globally. As a membership based organization, it is equally important for FITT to expand its network of members and CITPs for the benefit of all. An excellent example is the partnership FITT established with the World Trade Centers Association in 2007. The FITT program is gaining traction in the United States (U.S.), the United Kingdom, China, ASEAN Region and European Union (E.U.).

As presented to members at the FITT Annual General Meeting in May 2009, FITT is now increasing its activities on an international scale and the organization has identified some potential challenges in the use of the CITP designation in certain international markets based on the existence of foreign trademark registrations for CITP.

In an effort to ensure that FITT continues to enjoy strong brand recognition and maintain the distinction and distinctiveness of its professional designations, FITT has been working for more than a year to search for the best new label that is available in all of its biggest markets.

Where are we today?
To capitalize on our existing reputation with the name “FITT”, we have chosen FIBP and FITT International Business Professional. FITT has applied for trademark protection in Canada, the U.S. and the E.U. Trademark registrations in each of these jurisdictions have been issued or are expected to be issued shortly.

It is now FITT’s intention to use and promote the FIBP as our professional designation in the U.S., the E.U. and other international locations. In Canada, FITT will continue to use CITP and we will maintain trademark ownership of this designation now and into the future. FITT is tremendously proud of its ownership of the CITP mark in Canada and does not want to give up on the efforts that have been undertaken by our founding partners, our current members and CITPs, our educational partners and our corporate partners. FITT and the CITP are well established brands in this country with excellent recognition and respect in the international trade community.

Thanks to the growth afforded to FITT by the interest in, and acceptance of, the CITP designation around the world, we now find ourselves in the position of rolling out our own international growth strategy. A cornerstone of this strategy is having a brand we are able to use, with all rights and privileges, exclusively in the countries where we will be developing partnerships. The FITT International Business Professional – FIBP designation is that brand.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Why does FITT need a new label for its professional designation in the first place?
FITT is experiencing tremendous growth since its founding almost two decades ago. Our members and CITPs span the globe and FITT’s products and services are now being delivered in the U.S., the United Kingdom and Jordan. Our first entry into China will be realized soon and FITT is exploring interest from the ASEAN Region as well. With partnerships developing from our Educational Partners and the relationship FITT has with the World Trade Centers Association, the standards and certifications FITT offers are reaching into many countries and our network of members and CITPs has grown exponentially. FITT currently has members in 24 countries who are affiliated with 418 organizations, associations and/or government agencies.

So what will be the new label for the professional designation?
FITT will be using FIBP and FITT International Business Professional.

How did FITT arrive at FIBP?
Thorough consideration was given to more than two dozen potential acronyms for the new label. FIBP and FITT International Business Professional were selected as having the greatest utility, brand recognition and being the most distinctive of the available choices.

Will I still be able to use CITP and is my designation still valuable?
Yes. FITT is still the only organization in Canada able to grant this valuable designation. FITT owns the trademark to CITP and Certified International Trade Professional in Canada and it is our intention to do so into the future. FITT also owns all legal rights to the French-language equivalent PACI or Professionnel accrédité en commerce international. If you are currently taking the FITTskills program or will be obtaining your CITP designation soon, but live outside Canada and want to carry the new FIBP designation, FITT will be able to accommodate your request. If your international trade career will be based in Canada and you wish to carry the already well recognized CITP designation, this option will also be available. The choice is yours, keep your CITP, migrate to the new FIBP designation or carry both if you wish.

As a FITT Educational Partner, how does this affect our association with FITT and what should I be promoting to our students?
FITT’s products and services remain completely unchanged in Canada. The training your students receive using or based on the FITTskills curriculum is still the most practical industry focused international trade training available. The course titles remain the same; our exams and project assessments remain the same; our policies and procedures for awarding the Certificate and Diploma remain unchanged. FITT is now providing a better choice of options for domestic and international students to consider as they expand their international trade careers after their education. FITT has established its reputation as the leading authority for international trade standards and certification in Canada and we are rapidly growing internationally. Many of our educational partners and their students ask about the recognition of FITTskills and our designation internationally, and we are now well positioned to provide them with credentials that can be carried anywhere and will be recognized globally.

What are the implications for CITPs who are already certified but are living and working in the U.S. or E.U.?
Those individuals already certified and living in the U.S. or E.U. can maintain their CITP designation or, if they choose, may switch to the FIBP designation. FITT is not making this change mandatory. All new approved applicants in these two geographic areas will be getting the FIBP designation. It will be important for those with the CITP in the U.S. and E.U. to know the designation has been registered as a trademark by others.

What is FITT doing to encourage the adoption or recognition of FIBP to employers, organizations and associations?
Every single day FITT is engaged in activities to promote our organization, our standards and certifications programs and our members. Many of you will be familiar with the email communications FITT sends out. Other FITT members and contacts are involved in various projects FITT engages in across the country and around the world, all aimed at promoting FITT, our certification programs, and international trade resources. FITT attends conferences, trade shows, and speaking engagements plus connects with as many of our educational partners as possible for classroom visits. FITT will be launching an aggressive outreach strategy that will run from September 2009 through to April 2010 targeting business associations, national organizations, all of Canada Sector Councils and individual employers of international trade professionals. We are hoping to create partnerships, seek out skills development opportunities and identify how international trade training can increase the competitiveness of Canadian SMEs.

On the international stage, FITT was present again at the World Trade Centers Association Annual General Assembly held in Barcelona. FITT also participated in the International Association of Trade Training Organization’s (IATTO) annual conference and we will engage in the NASBITE conference in the U.S. As members though, your help is still crucial in building awareness of FITT. Your participation and engagement in promoting your experiences with FITT to colleagues and contacts will equally serve to elevate the recognition and prestige of the organization and your membership in it. And finally we hope that you, friends of FITT, our members and CITPs, will represent your association as the global ambassadors you are. Use your designation on your business cards and in your e-mail signature. Share your experiences and knowledge of FITT with others and help us grow our network wherever you can.

For more information please contact:
Scott C. Ferris, CITP
Director, Business Development
FITT
Tel: 613.230.3553 or 800.561.3488
E-mail: scott@fitt.ca
www.fitt.ca

FITTskills 5th Edition - Update your reference library today!

FITTskills 5th Edition Textbook Series FITT is pleased to announce the release of the FITTskills 5th Edition textbooks fully revised and updated, and available in both official languages. Focused on a truly international audience, the 5th Edition textbooks cover the most relevant trade topics with practical information, examples and support material making them essential reference guides for all trade practitioners. With the new 5th Edition, FITT has recognized new competencies required in the 21st century business environment and has presented the tactical and strategic perspectives required to master them. These updated tools are a must-have for your desk reference and will help ensure you have the right knowledge to succeed in international trade. Check-out the full learning objectives covered by the 5th Edition here: www.fitt.ca/learningobjectives These eight textbooks cover over 120 relevant and practical topics including: Global Business Environment – the context of international trade International Marketing – implementation and coordination of product and service marketing activities Trade Finance – payment facilitation, risk mitigation, financing options and provision of information Global Supply Chain Management – production and inventory management along the complete logistics spectrum Market Entry Strategies – market entry options and barrier identification International Trade Research – the importance of planning and setting objectives Legal Aspects of International Trade – protecting your business activities on the international stage Trade Management – completely integrating international trade practices Plus, from now until December 23rd, Certified and General Members receive special pricing on the purchase of the complete FITTskills textbook series. Not a member of FITT? Become a General or Certified Member today to take advantage of this considerable discount. Full set - Non-member Price $690.00* Full set - Certified & General Member special price $552.00* * Plus shipping & handling (within Canada $25) and GST/HST as applicable. Maintain your leadership position in global markets, keep your knowledge current, and order your updated series today. Purchases can be made by contacting FITT directly at info@fitt.ca. For more information on FITT and our offerings, visit www.fitt.ca.

Time for an Upgrade?

Members' Forum August & September, 2009 - Cultural Considerations

Cultural considerations are a significant and integral part of success in international trade. From basic professional courtesies to religion, attire, hierarchies, and gender considerations, a myriad of aspects can affect global business relations, both positively and negatively.

Those succeeding in the industry recognize the value of cultural diversity and understand intercultural differences and how they can dramatically impact international business. They are able to use appropriate communication strategies that respect international audiences and are able to identify and mitigate cross-cultural risks in the export and import of both products and services.

Whether you have 30 years of experience in global business, or are new to the intricacies of international trade, awareness of and experience with cultural issues is a topic we must all know very well. Business cultures change as new generations emerge to replace older workers. Take for instance the explosion of social media channels. Is it OK to maintain a relationship with your clients through your corporate Facebook page? Some would say no, while many others are doing this very thing on a daily basis.

You may think your experiences with different cultures have fully prepared you for any situation, but we can all learn from one another. In your wide-spanning business relationships, have you ever made an unfortunate cultural faux pas? Perhaps you owe some of your success to cultural know-how? Share your experiences and tips on the discussion forum and help others avoid potential pitfalls.

FITT Members can check-out this month's Members' Forum for more on the cultral aspects of international trade.

Staff Announcement

FITT is pleased to welcome Ms. Céleste Burnie as the new Senior Coordinator for the Education and Certification Department.

Céleste joins us from the International Actuarial Association (IAA) with over 15 years of experience in program coordination and administration. Most of Céleste’s career has been spent in the not-for-profit sector. At the IAA Céleste’s worked with professional actuarial associations in areas of the world in which it was not present or was not fully developed. Prior to her IAA experience, Céleste worked within the development of membership in the intelligent information and communications technology areas. Her interests are history, arts and culture.

Welcome Céleste!

Membership Renewals - Prize Winners from June

As part of our renewal campaign, each month we will be giving away two excellent prizes. Congratulations to June’s winners!

• Nicole Daigle, CITP, who has won an International Trade Dictionary from World Trade Press.
• Sameer Sen, General Member, who has won a free membership, valid until August 31st, 2010.
  

Congratulations!

Plus, Certified Members who have renewed during July will be entered into a draw for an iPod shuffle. And, renewing General Members will have the chance to win back their renewal fees. Good luck!

Are you a Member of FITT? Win an iPod Shuffle!

Membership renewal season is upon us!

All FITT Memberships expire on August 31st of each year. That means that there is just over one month left before your membership (Student, General, or CITP) will lapse.

Don't wait! You can renew your membership today by logging into our website at www.fitt.ca. Your username to login is your FITT ID. Can't remember? Simply send us an email at membership@fitt.ca

Plus, those Certified Members who renew before July 31st will be entered into a draw to win an iPod Shuffle. AND, General Members will be entered into a draw to win back the cost of their membership!

We look forward to working on your behalf in the coming year as we continue to provide world-class information, support, and knowledge to our members and the international trade community on-whole. We would also like to thank you in advance for renewing your membership and for your help in promoting the benefits of FITT to your colleagues and peers.

For more information on Membership with FITT, please visit www.fitt.ca/membership

Career Opportunity with FITT - Coordinator, Education & Certification

Position: Coordinator, Education and Certification
Reports to: Manager – Education and Certification
Salary Range: $35,000 - $42,000

General Accountability
To coordinate the program delivery process, to meet or exceed the needs of FITT educational partners, students and other clients.

Specific Accountabilities

• Respond to FITT client needs in a timely fashion.
• Review, modify, administer and monitor products and services within the department
• Collaborates on launch of joint activities, products and services offered by FITT
• Promote FITT products, services and partnerships

Tasks or Responsibilities

• Coordinate implementation of new processes, as required, for new educational partners or customized learning initiatives
• Implement agreements with partners
• Monitor and service online partnership
• Coordinate the administration and ensure the accuracy of all information for the FITTskills examination and certification processes
• Maintain the integrity of all customer book exchanges and information management (including the privacy of confidential information)
• Compile monthly / quarterly program delivery statistics
• Verify accuracy and relevance of program delivery information on website
• Update and revise the Educational Partner website
• Organize and coordinate class visits and presentations
• Maintain and update program delivery documentation (applications, overviews, forms, policies and procedures)
• Manage FITTskills and Going Global training material inventory
• Establish annual pool of project evaluators by collaborating in the recruitment and managing the preparation of contract and statement of confidentiality
• Coordinate electronic processing of projects
• Maintain the student information accuracy in the database
• Provide training and orientation to new employees within the Education and Certification department
• Manage projects delegated by the Manager such as issuing RFPs, preparing contracts, review projects submissions, events, etc.
• Provide coordination and administrative support to the Director of International Trade Resources as it relates to the FITT HRSDC projects: Going Global Update, and ELearning package
• Other duties as required

Requirements

• Fluently bilingual - English and French
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Ability to organize/prioritize a multi-task workload
• Capacity to work in a self-directed manner and ability to work well within a team environment
• Intermediate level ability with Microsoft programs (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access) in a Windows environment
• Problem solving skills
• Good interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated leadership abilities

Contact
Mariana Arapov, Manager – Education and Certification
800.561.3488 / 613.230.3553 x 104
info@fitt.ca

FITT – Twittering with the International Trade Community

For those community members savvy to the twittering world, you can now follow FITT on Twitter.

What is Twitter? “In countries all around the world, people follow the sources most relevant to them and access information via Twitter as it happens—from breaking world news to updates from friends.”

Join FITT on Twitter for instant updates on events, announcements, job opportunities, and community topics. You can also include FITT’s Twitter updates on your RSS reader by navigating to http://twitter.com/statuses/user_timeline/21421954.rss

Follow FITTNews today!

Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway receives Honourary CITP Designation

June 11, 2009 – The Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, was presented with a honourary Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) designation as part of International Trade Day on June 3, 2009. This honourary designation is FITT’s highest distinction and is conferred very sparingly to private or public sector leaders who have made a difference in Canada’s positioning in the world.

Hosted by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, International Trade Day is an annual event that brings together the business community, senior government officials, industry stakeholders and academics to discuss issues and priorities in international trade and economics. In a letter to Caroline Tompkins, President of FITT, Minister Day noted, “The need for international trade competencies will continue to grow in this globalized world. I would like to thank and encourage FITT for its efforts in designing the training needed to help individuals and businesses succeed internationally”.

Additionally, Minister Day noted the launch of a new pilot project whereby trade commissioners will be able to pursue the CITP designation further enhancing the service delivery capabilities of the Trade Commissioners Service for the benefit of Canadian companies. In her presentation of the honourary designation to Minister Day, Ms. Tomkins said, “With this we pay tribute to your past and future accomplishments and thank you for your continued support and commitment to building Canada’s capacity to undertake international trade”.

This was a very appropriate venue for FITT to present the honourary CITP designation to Minister Day, not only was Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada a founding partner of FITT’s back in 1992, but so too was the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.

The CITP program focuses on best practices in international trade. It offers practical knowledge and skills that trade practitioners can apply immediately.
For more information on how your organization can benefit from FITT specialized training in global business, please contact Scott Ferris, Director of Business Development at scott@fitt.ca or 613.230.3553 / 800.561.3488.

Trade Commissioner Service launches online training pilot project with FITT

June 10, 2009 – Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada has approved the opportunity for 25 employees of the Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) to register for an online training pilot project, to obtain the Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) designation through FITT and eConcordia. This pilot project, for Trade Commissioner Service employees in posts and regional offices, aims to enable participants to take part in a certification program that reflects their roles and responsibilities in serving Canadian companies engaged in international business.

This pilot represents activities that will take place in the first year of a five-year program within the Department and could ultimately see 125 Trade Commissioners earning their CITP designation. The Department is offering this online training pilot project to further enhance the learning opportunities at posts and regional offices as it implements the Integrative Trade Model across the organization.

Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada is one of FITT’s founding partners. The opportunity to engage with the Trade Commissioner Service in the provision of training that will enhance the skills and knowledge of TCS staff, while increasing the global competitiveness of Canadian companies, represents a significant addition to the partnership between FITT and the Department.

The CITP program focuses on best practices in international trade. It offers practical knowledge and skills that trade practitioners can apply immediately. This gives them a competitive edge and raises their professional credibility with clients of the Trade Commissioner Service. eConcordia will be the online provider for this training in both official languages.

For more information on how your organization can benefit from FITT specialized training in global business, please contact Scott Ferris, Director of Business Development at scott@fitt.ca or 613.230.3553 / 800.561.3488.

________________________________________________

Le 10 juin 2009 – Affaires étrangères et Commerce international Canada a approuvé un projet-pilote de formation en ligne pour 25 employés du Service des délégués commerciaux (SDC), qui pourront s’inscrire en vue d’obtenir le titre de Professionnel accrédité en commerce international (PACI) par l’entremise de FITT et de eConcordia. Ce projet-pilote destiné aux employés en poste et des bureaux régionaux du Service des délégués commerciaux leur permet de participer à un programme de certification qui reflète leurs rôles et responsabilités, soit celui de servir les entreprises canadiennes ayant des activités internationales.

Ce projet-pilote représente les activités de la première année d’un programme de cinq ans au sein du Ministère, aux termes duquel 125 délégués commerciaux pourraient obtenir le titre PACI. Le Ministère offre ce projet-pilote de formation en ligne afin de renforcer les occasions d’apprentissage des employés sur le terrain et dans les bureaux régionaux, alors qu’il déploie le modèle du commerce d’intégration à l’échelle de l’organisation.

Affaires étrangères et Commerce international Canada est un des membres fondateurs de FITT. La possibilité de collaborer avec le Service des délégués commerciaux dans la prestation d’une formation qui améliorera les compétences et les connaissances du personnel du SDC, tout en rehaussant la compétitivité mondiale des entreprises canadiennes, représente un ajout important au partenariat existant entre FITT et le Ministère.

Le programme PACI met l’accent sur les pratiques exemplaires du commerce international. Il offre des connaissances et des compétences pratiques que les praticiens du domaine peuvent appliquer immédiatement. Cela leur confère un atout concurrentiel et rehausse leur crédibilité professionnelle auprès des clients du Service des délégués commerciaux. eConcordia offrira la formation en ligne dans les deux langues officielles.

Pour un complément d’information sur la manière dont votre organisation peut tirer parti de la formation spécialisée FITT en commerce mondial, veuillez contacter Scott Ferris, Directeur du développement des affaires, par courriel à scott@fitt.ca ou par téléphone au 613.230.3553 / 800.561.3488.

Career Opportunity with FITT - Administrator, Member Relations

Position: Administrator, Member Relations
Reports To: Manager, Marketing Communications
Salary: $32-35K
Deadline to apply: June 24, 2009

General Accountability
To administer and support all FITT membership activities and increase FITT membership base, with particular emphasis on: Certified International Trade Professionals (CITP), member retention, and member satisfaction.

Specific Accountabilities or Expected Results

Administer and support membership activities

Increase membership base, with particular emphasis on CITPs, member retention and member satisfaction

Increase the profile of the CITP designation across Canada and liaise with members to create awareness of member benefits and programs

Implementation of membership recruitment and retention plans

Maintenance of the marketing and membership database with assistance from the Coordinator Marketing

Administrative support for membership, business development, and marketing activities

Tasks or Responsibilities

Administer and support all membership activities including: implementing invoicing schedule and ensuring that membership revenue processes are implemented; processing membership applications, renewals and lapsing; maintaining membership files; tracking of all activities as required; etc.

Compile membership statistics and reports monthly

Draft communications and correspondence as required

Proactively communicate with members to assess member needs and provide required information

Implement membership opportunities and benefits

Implement membership recruitment and retention plans

Support conference and regional programming activities

Support business development and marketing through research and administrative activities as required

Maintain and update the policies and procedures guide as it pertains to membership activities

Maintain the marketing and membership database (processing/updating/data entry, etc)

Arrange travel accommodations for business development, marketing, and President

Respond to, process, and track requests for information about FITT products and services

Process incoming and outgoing mail daily (courier packages to be a shared responsibility with Coordinator Education and Certification)

Other duties include but are not limited to: website research, updating FITT documentation, and ordering coffee supplies

Minimum Skill Requirement

Language

Fluently bilingual - English and French

Knowledge and Experience

Database experience

Web experience

Intermediate level ability with Microsoft programs in a Windows environment

Experience in a customer service environment

Knowledge of business administration

Strong oral and written communication skills

Personal Traits

Attention to detail

Flexible

Resourceful

Good Initiative

Organized

Motivated


Contact
Silvia Baptista – Manager, Marketing Communications
silvia@fitt.ca


FITT thanks all applicants, but only those being considered for the position will be contacted.

FITT’s 12th National Conference & CME’s Global Business Summit – Special Thanks to our Community

FITT celebrated its 12^th National Conference in conjunction with CME’s Global Business Summit at the International Centre in Mississauga, Ontario on May 25-26. On behalf of everyone at FITT and the FITT Board of Directors, thank you for participating—we hope you had a wonderful and beneficial time! For those who missed the conference, don’t despair! We will be assembling photos and presentation decks from the event which will be made available online shortly. A few presentations are already available for download. Thank you to the conference organizers, partners, and all helpers, for the hard work you put in to make this year’s conference such a success.

The joint conference featured a medley of expert speakers spanning topics from Industrialized Export Markets, to Operations, Supply Chain and Customs Management. Highlights included keynote addresses from the Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway; Louis Lévesque, Deputy Minister of International Trade, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada; Juergen G. Schachler, President & CEO ArcelorMittal Dofasco; Mr. Stephen Poloz, Senior Vice-President, Financing Products Group, Export Development Canada; and Alan Curleigh, Chairman, Canadian Commercial Corporation. Thank you to all our amazing speakers and contributors!

Congratulations once again to all of the designation recipients and award winners, including the 2008-2009 CITPs, 2008 FITT Educational Award Winners, and the EDC-FITT Internship Recipient. We were thrilled to acknowledge and celebrate your successes with the entire international trade community. View the complete list of winners!

To fully understand how our event has meet your needs, we are conducting a mini-survey. We understand your day is busy, so we’ve organized the survey to take approximately 2-5 minutes. The results will be used to enable us to make specific improvements in the way we organize our events, and improve your overall experience with future events. Please be assured that your expectations related to confidentiality will be respected. Your responses will be submitted anonymously without any personally identifiable information. Click here to begin the survey.

And last but not least, a very special thanks to our partners!

We owe a special thank you to all our supporters whose generosity made the conference possible.

FITT Conference Strategic Partners:

FITT Conference Supporting Partners:

Canada’s International Competitiveness Set to Grow...

Newest Certified International Trade Professionals will lead the way

Mississauga, Canada – Members of Canada’s international trade community came together last night at FITT’s 12^th National Conference to celebrate the accreditation of 63 newly designated Certified International Trade Professionals (CITP).

These individuals join the prestigious group of over 370 CITPs from across Canada and around the world who are bringing a new level of expertise and accountability to the field of international trade. CITPs possess the necessary skills and experiences required in today’s unique business environment and have the credential to prove it.

“Besides adding value to my current career, the FITT Diploma of International Trade [the educational requirement for the CITP] has also educated me to become more capable of critical and independent thinking towards opportunities, inefficiency, complexity and solutions at the industry and national economic levels,” said Dehua Pan, CITP, Business Development Manager, Mathias International Limited, who is among the newly recognized CITPs.

Rafi Moradians, Advisor to Deputy Minister’s Office, Iran, Ministry of Industry and Mines, who has been a CITP for 13 years, said the accreditation is a tremendous career enhancing asset. “The FITT Diploma and the CITP designation [have] opened lots of doors for me and given me the ability to move up in my career at a faster pace,” said Mr. Moradians. “I had the privilege of meeting my peers, exchanging ideas and discussing issues,” adds Moradians.

FITT’s highest educational honours, the FITT Educational Awards, were also presented to four students who participated in the FITTskills program, a practical, hands-on series of courses that focus on the fundamental aspects of international business. The EDC-FITT Internship recipient was also recognized during the event. This program, established by EDC, was created in recognition of the importance of international trade to Canada’s economic prosperity.

“The commitment of our partners—Export Development Canada, Scotiabank, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada, and Georgian College—for these awards helps us to promote quality international trade training”, said Caroline Tompkins, President of FITT. “International trade training benefits the individual, their employer, and ultimately, the Canadian economy.’’

A complete list of winners and CITPs is included below.

The 2008 FITT Educational Award Winners:

Todd MacDonald, Georgian College
International Business Plan Award
Presented by FITT’s supporting partner, Georgian College

Caitlin Pauzé, Georgian College
International Marketing Plan Award
Presented by FITT’s strategic partner, Scotiabank

Igor Yarantsev, British Columbia Institute of Technology
Student of the Year Award
Presented by FITT’s strategic partner, Export Development Canada

Ashley McCulloch, Sheridan College
FITT Achievement Award
Presented by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada

The 2009 EDC-FITT Internship Recipient:

EDC-FITT Internship Recipient
Heather Stokes
Graduate, International Business Management, Georgian College

2008 – 2009 Certified International Trade Professionals (CITPs):

• David Archer, International Business Trainers

• Visar Bajra, S.A. Armstrong Ltd.

• Molly Jo Beauchamp, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada

• Miran Bek, Bek Group Ltd.

• Jeffrey Bielmann, GEOS Corporation

• Ramiro Castaneda, Borden Ladner Gervais LLP

• Doreen Conrad, Global Links Network

• Joseph Conti, Media-Hosts

• Christopher Corman, Industry Canada

• Rémi Côté, Sotrem Maltech Groupe

• Mario Cotic, TST Overland Express

• Nicole Daigle, MDS Nordion

• Sukhdeep Singh Deol, Deolexim

• Alexandra Dostal, Finance Canada

• Dilek Duman, Wyecroft Lumber & Trim Ltd.

• Catherine Ehlers, Automotive Finishes Corporation

• Mamoun El-Khatib, Doha Bank

• Frederic Fournier, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada

• Felipe Gajardo, Government of Chile

• Mauricio Gamboa, Encore Art Group

• Valya Georgieva, Global Bulgarian Business Network Association

• Peter Giffin, Nova Scotia Business Inc.

• Barry Goldberg, YMCA

• Ruth Grady, Northern Abrasives Inc.

• Jatinder Singh Gulati, Raysim Ventures Incorporated

• Jing Hu, Kuehne and Nagel Logistics Incorporated

• Brian Jervis, Algonquin College

• Kathleen Keating, Keating Communications

• Mozammel Khan, MDI Canada

• Martin Lutereau, Consulate General of Argentina

• Stacy MacWilliams, West Isle Enterprise Limited

• Alexander Malaket, OPUS Advisory Services International Inc.

• Andrea Mandel-Campbell, Veteran Journalist

• Marcela Mandeville, Alberta Women Entrepreneurs

• Nelly Martinez Fonseca, Trade Office of Costa Rica

• Ashley McCulloch, 2008 FITT Achievement Award Winner

• Alain Meere, Export Development Canada

• Holly Metropolit, Government of Alberta

• Abel Mharapara, Canada Revenue Agency

• Karl Miville de Chêne, Consultation Contacts Monde

• Hilda Namu, Elizabeth Fry Society of Toronto

• Peter Ohonsi, Royal Bank of Canada

• Omaira Ospino, Nova Scotia Department of Energy

• Roy Palaco, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

• Dehua Pan, Mathias International Limited

• David Pastirik, Niagara College

• Steve Razmovski, Cushman and Wakefield LePage Inc.

• Ehab Shalayel, Canada Link

• Doron Shwaizer, CrimsonLogic (North America) Inc.

• Debby Sung, Mountain Equipment Co-op

• Michel Tapiero, World University Service of Canada

• Bradley Thorne, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador

• Mariya Vaneva, Ango Mode Inc.

• Krishna Kumar Varma, Vancouver Career College

• Jagdeep Virk, Virk and Virk

• Martin Wanzala, Delmar International

• Karen Williams, Nova Scotia Tourism, Culture and Heritage

• Berni Wood, Berni Wood & Associates and Reel Media

• Ann Worth, Worth Consulting Group

• Juzer Ebrahim Yusufali, Export Development Canada

• Gustavo Zentner, InterPOC - International Point of Commerce

• Limei Zhou, Scotiabank

An Evening in Halifax

An Evening in Halifax, hosted by FITT in partnership with World Trade Centre Atlantic Canada and Scotiabank, is your opportunity to network with international business experts and young professionals. Join us at Windows restaurant, at the top of the World Trade and Convention Centre to network with representatives from FITT, FITT members and the international trade community.

A Keynote address will be provided by John Pelley, Senior Manager, Global Transaction Banking with Scotiabank. His presentation will feature a brief overview of the world’s economy, the potential impact on Trade Finance services and the unique position of Scotiabank to capitalize on these opportunities.

When: Thursday, June 4, 2009 5:00 – 7:00 pm
Where: Windows Restaurant, At the World Trade and Convention Centre 1800 Argyle Street, 8th Floor, Halifax NS B3J 2V9
Cost: FREE

Speaker Profile:

John Pelley
Senior Manager, Global Transaction Banking, Scotiabank

John Pelley is a Senior Manager with Scotiabank’s Global Transaction Banking group, covering Corporate accounts in Atlantic Canada. His portfolio of accounts includes regional, national, and international companies and international companies operating in the regional market. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) from Saint Francis Xavier University (St. FX) and a Certified Treasury Professional designation from the Association of Financial Professionals (AFP). He has been with Scotiabank for 25 years holding positions in Branch administration, Internal Audit, Commercial Lending and for the past 11 years, with the Cash, Treasury Management and Trade Finance group. He has been recognized as a top performer in Eastern Canada for 6 of the last 7 years and in 2008 was named to Global Transaction Banking’s Platinum Club as a top performer in North America. While originally from Newfoundland and Labrador, he and his family currently reside in Bedford, NS.

Register online or download the PDF registration form (at www.fitt.ca/resources/halifaxreception) and email or fax it to:

FITT
Email: silvia@fitt.ca
Fax: 613.230.6808
Phone: 613.230.3553 or 800.561.3488

Time is running out... register today for a chance to win a Blackberry Bold

Less than three weeks remain to register for this year’s exciting conference. Don’t be disappointed! With FITT and CME’s expansive joint program, registration has been filling-up early.

Don’t miss your chance to get one-on-one access to trade experts during the roundtable events. Participants will also have an opportunity to learn about accessing U.S. markets, global market opportunities, and export finance issues.

Grow your network while meeting with peers, industry experts, and reps from key trade organizations such as Canada’s Trade Commissioner Service, EDC, CCC, and Ontario Exports. Visit our conference site for the latest program announcements.

And, register for FITT’s 12th National Conference & CME’s Global Business Summit by May 15th to be entered into a draw to win a Rogers BlackBerry Bold! For more information regarding the summit and registration details, please visit: www.fitt.ca/resources/2009conference. The winner of the draw will be announced on the FITT website on Monday, May 18th.
Whether you are a student, industry professional, or corporate representative, join the FITT and CME communities for two days of exciting international trade discussion and exploration.

Click here to register today!

Staff Announcement - Director, International Trade Resources

FITT is pleased to welcome our newest staff member Mr. Rob Gnaedinger, PMP, in the position of Director, International Trade Resources.

Rob joins us from Nortel with over 12 years of project management and training/documentation development experience. Much of Rob’s career at Nortel involved information and project management for publications for both internal and external clients. Prior to his Nortel experience, Rob worked within the trademark and intellectual property areas. He has his Project Management Designation (PMP), a FITT Certificate, and is working toward his Certified Business Analysis Professional and CITP designations. In addition, Rob has a BA from Carleton University, an Algonquin Diploma in Technical Writing, and an Algonquin Certificate in Microcomputer Operator.

Welcome Rob!

FITT’s coming to Halifax! - Regional Event Announcement

In partnership with the World Trade Center Atlantic Canada, FITT is pleased to announce an evening of networking. Join us at the Windows Restaurant, located at the top of the World Trade and Convention Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia on June 4^th, 5:00-7:00PM, as we connect with our community members from across the region.

Stay tuned for more details as we get closer to the event.

Latest Corporate Members

FITT is pleased to announce our latest Corporate Members, Emerging Markets Financial Group (EMFG Toronto), and Cégep John Abbott College (Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue).

EMFG is a Canadian federal incorporated institution with interests in trade finance advisory, training and business consulting services, with particular emphasis on creating and facilitating cross border trade between North American institutions and emerging markets companies, especially companies in Africa.

John Abbott College is the only English language CEGEP in the West Island of Montreal. They offer pre-university and career programs, as well as a wide range of continuing education programs to over 5700 full-time and 2000 part-time students.

FITT would like to formally welcome Emerging Markets Financial Group and John Abbott College to our community. We are looking forward to working together in the coming months.

To apply for a FITT Corporate Membership or for more information, please visit us online or contact our Membership Coordinator or call us toll-free 800.561.3488.

Position: Administrator, Member Relations
Reports To: Manager, Marketing Communications
Salary: $32-35K
Application Deadline: Tuesday April 28, 2009

General Accountability

To administer and support all FITT membership activities and increase FITT membership base, with particular emphasis on: Certified International Trade Professionals (CITP), member retention, and member satisfaction.

Specific Accountabilities or Expected Results

• Administer and support membership activities
• Increase membership base, with particular emphasis on CITPs, member retention and member satisfaction
• Increase the profile of the CITP designation across Canada and liaise with members to create awareness of member benefits and programs
• Implementation of membership recruitment and retention plans
• Maintenance of the marketing and membership database with assistance from the Coordinator Marketing
• Administrative support for membership, business development, and marketing activities

Tasks or Responsibilities

• Administer and support all membership activities including: implementing invoicing schedule and ensuring that membership revenue processes are implemented; processing membership applications, renewals and lapsing; maintaining membership files; tracking of all activities as required; etc.
• Compile membership statistics and reports monthly
• Draft communications and correspondence as required
• Proactively communicate with members to assess member needs and provide required information
• Implement membership opportunities and benefits
• Implement membership recruitment and retention plans
• Support conference and regional programming activities
• Support business development and marketing through research and administrative activities as required
• Maintain and update the policies and procedures guide as it pertains to membership activities
• Maintain the marketing and membership database (processing/updating/data entry, etc)
• Arrange travel accommodations for business development, marketing, and President
• Respond to, process, and track requests for information about FITT products and services
• Process incoming and outgoing mail daily (courier packages to be a shared responsibility with Coordinator Education and Certification)
• Other duties include but are not limited to: website research, updating FITT documentation, and ordering coffee supplies

Minimum Skill Requirement

Language

Fluently bilingual - English and French

Knowledge and Experience

• Database experience
• Web experience
• Intermediate level ability with Microsoft programs in a Windows environment
• Experience in a customer service environment
• Knowledge of business administration
• Strong oral and written communication skills

Personal Traits

• Attention to detail
• Flexible
• Resourceful
• Good Initiative
• Organized
• Motivated

Contact
Silvia Baptista – Manager, Marketing Communications
silvia@fitt.ca

Please visit us online, for more information.

FITT thanks all applicants, but only those being considered for the position will be contacted.