Speaker Jim Foley and Jade Sims, presentersNote this training is by invitation only. Please direct questions to Jade Sims of the Michigan State University International Business Center, sims@bus.msu.edu, or 517.884.1660. The Global Business Club of Mid-Michigan focuses on global issues of interest to the mid-Michigan business community. The monthly GB Club luncheons provide outstanding speakers and relaxed networking opportunities. With extensive international experience, the speakers wrap personal insights around a practical and up-to-the-minute approach to conducting international trade.

Jim Foley is a frequent speaker on issues of international trade and teaches International Business courses at Bradley University. He is a Past President of NASBITE International, and now serves as the Director for the NASBITE Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) credential. He was elected Chairman of IATTO – International Association of Trade Training Organizations during the 2004 IATTO Forum in Cape Town, South Africa and is also chair of the Association of Small Business Development Centers (ASBDC) International Interest Section. Mr. Foley is the author of the book The Global Entrepreneur discussing techniques to expand international trade for small to midsize companies. First printed in 1999 and now in its second edition, numerous colleges and universities have adopted the text for undergraduate and MBA international business courses. The book has also been used by thousands of readers to expand their international business. Prior to joining the trade center in 1994, Mr. Foley lived and worked in Europe for seven years. His overseas business experience includes positions in marketing, sales, and corporate management in the computer industry.Before London, Jim worked in Los Angeles in the software industry, and also lived in Mexico City where he earned a Spanish proficiency certificate.

We hope you join us on Wednesday, September 12 as we welcome Michael Rush, Founding Director of the Eli and Edythe Broad Museum, to keynote the September Economic Club luncheon. This luncheon is sponsored by Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith P.C.

Speaker Luiz Eugenio Porto Severo de CostaMr. Porto Severo assists U.S. businesses with interests in Brazil. A graduate of the PUC Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro, he served as counsel in the areas of consulting and tax litigation at law firms Castro, Barros, Sobral Advogados and Barbosa Gomes, Müssnich & Aragão Advogados. He is currently a member of the Bichara, Barata & Costa Law Firm. He is author of articles published in books specializing in Tax Law,and has delivered numerous lectures throughout Brazil. His post-graduate studies in state law were completed at the State University of the State of Rio de Janeiro - UERJ.LLM, and in tax from Northwestern University (USA). Member of the Brazilian Bar Association, Rio de Janeiro section. Other confirmed speakers include: Angelo Oricchio, CEO, Paramount Coffee Chuck Bird, Director of International Sales, Neogen Corporation Bruce Thelen, Member,Dickinson Wright PLLC Saulo Gouveia, MSU Assistant Professor of PortugueseThe Global Business Club of Mid-Michigan focuses on global issues of interest to the mid-Michigan business community. The monthly GB Club luncheons provide outstanding speakers and relaxed networking opportunities. With extensive international experience, the speakers wrap personal insights around a practical and up-to-the-minute approach to conducting international trade.

We hope you join us on Thursday, October 11 for the healthcare forum. This luncheon is sponsored by Delta Dental.

If you're attending the Product Innovation Management Annual Global Conference, say hi to the JAMS editor, who will be there Oct. 19-21.

The JAMS Editor will participate in a meet the editors panel and doctoral consortium at the Society for Marketing Advances conference in Orlando.

We hope you join us on Thursday, November 1 for the for the Celebration of Regional Growth Awards. This luncheon is sponsored by PNC and Loomis, Ewert, Parsley, Davis & Gotting, P.C..

As the two largest economic powers in the world, the US and China have become more and more closely connected and dependent upon each other from business and trade to cultural exchange. Due to the intensive connections between both countries, global supply chain management has become more critical than ever; however, as issues arise along with the economic development of China, it becomes increasingly difficult for companies to stay competitive in this rapidly growing market. This Forum was created to enhance students and professionals understanding of the current situation in the Chinese market, as well as to provide a platform for them to interact and further benefit each other.

JAMS Editor Tomas Hult will be visiting professor at the University of Innsbruck from December 4-6; say hi if you are in the area!