LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT | |
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Maya Mancuso
President, BABC
Northern California
US Business Relationships Manager
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Dear Members and Friends of the BABC,
Spring has arrived, bringing with it a sense of renewal and opportunity. As we embrace this vibrant season, let’s explore exciting updates, industry insights, and collaborative ventures together.
March holds a special place in my heart as we commemorate International Women’s Day and celebrate Women’s History Month. It’s a time to honor the trailblazing women who shattered barriers, elevating women’s status in workplaces, homes, and society. Let’s evaluate the direct actions we can take today—within our workplaces, communities, and importantly, our homes—to foster a more inclusive and equitable society for the next generation.
While we still need significant improvements in investment for women-led businesses, I am indeed encouraged to see some Bay Area businesses actively elevating women and fostering inclusive workplaces. Moreover, the international perception of International Women’s Day appears to be gradually evolving—shifting from mere corporate performance to substantive action.
I'm grateful to serve on the board of the BABC alongside so many inspiring and impactful women and I know we are all proud to have a brilliant woman at the helm of the organization in Jo Healey.
On to our events programme! March kicked off a very busy period for the BABC starting with our annual Venture Capital event on March 12th. I was glad to catch up with our community and fellow board members who attended a very entertaining and insightful look into the current landscape for venture capital. Thank you to our excellent panelists and to our event sponsors, CCW Business Solutions, Invest Northern Ireland and Penfolds wine. See photos from the event here.
We are hosting another annual gathering specifically for British Expats. If you are seeking updates on personal matters such as international tax, immigration, banking, credit, or advice on managing UK pensions, this event is for you.
We’re looking forward to the BABC NextGen Emerging Leaders Group hosting their inaugural leadership educational event for 2024.
In May, we’re excited to collaborate once again with the European Chambers of Commerce for the first of three networking events at the Palo Alto office of our Patron Member, Cooley.
Finally, we want to express our heartfelt thanks to all our new and renewing members for their support of the BABC. If you’re considering becoming a member of our vibrant community, we invite you to connect with our Executive Director, Jo Healey. For more details on membership, please visit our website.
With gratitude,
Maya Mancuso
Bird & Bird
maya.mancuso@twobirds.com
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LETTER FROM THE BRITISH CONSUL GENERAL | |
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Tammy Sandhu MBE
HM British Consul- General
San Francisco
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Dear members of the BABC,
I’m delighted to be addressing you from California once more after a busy week traversing North America promoting US-UK connections. Our jurisdiction at the British Consulate is expansive – covering Northern California, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Alaska – but often our focus is on the Bay Area both because of its proximity and geopolitical importance.
As you can imagine, then, it was a pleasant change of pace to visit Alaska for the first official visit by a British Consul General since 2017. With temperatures well below freezing, it was also quite a cold shock, but our delegation received a wonderful and warm welcome.
The visit covered the Consulate’s entire portfolio, from business to energy security to trade. In the state capital, Juneau, I even met with government leaders to discuss UK-Alaska cooperation on support for Ukraine. Russia is a mere 2.5 miles away at its closest point, and there is a myriad of future opportunities in hydrogen, zero-emission vehicles, and leveraging Alaska’s rare earth minerals to secure the supply of future technologies.
While in Alaska, I celebrated International Women’s Day with the World Affairs Council, where I had the opportunity to speak about a subject very near and dear to me: empowering women through foreign policy.
As this IWD marked the first anniversary of the UK’s Women and Girl’s Strategy, the occasion felt particularly apropos. The UK provides education, family planning, and access to reproductive care to millions of women worldwide, and we’re only increasing our efforts as a country and as a Consulate. This year’s theme – #InvestinWomen – is one we live out every day.
Next week, we’re looking towards our Game Developers Conference activities, which highlight a cohort of innovative UK companies traveling to San Francisco for the occasion. We’ll also be back in Alaska in April for Arctic Encounters, where global leaders will come together to discuss how we can continue to protect the whole of the Arctic region.
Lastly: a very fond thank you and farewell to Joe White in his capacity as HM Tech Envoy to the United States. Joe set a precedent for diplomats in Silicon Valley and helped usher in an era of British tech excellence defined by its collaborative approach, reasonable guardrails, and laser focus on innovation. I could not have asked for a better partner in diplomacy over these past years, and I’m truly looking forward to seeing where he takes his talents next.
Thank you as always for being an essential part of our community. Keep up to date on our activities and opportunities for involvement via our LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter!
All the best,
Tammy Sandhu MBE
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CALLING ALL BRITS!
Updates on International Tax & Estate Planning, UK Pensions, Immigration and More!
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LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER!
Whether you are new to the Bay Area or have been here a while, there are things you need to know to ensure success with your tax and estate planning, immigration status and current and future finances. Navigating the immigration laws, establishing your credit history, understanding the taxation system, and oh, what to do with that UK pension you left behind? While these issues may seem separate, your decisions about one issue, may negatively, or positively, impact one of the other areas.
Join us on Tuesday, March 19th, 2024 at Squire Patton Boggs for some in-person networking at 5.30pm. The panel session will start at 6.00pm. Light bites and wine included. This is your chance to get your questions answered from a panel of experts in tax, immigration law, estate planning and UK pensions. You will also get a chance to connect with people who are in the same situation as yourself.
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DATE:
TUESDAY, MARCH 19, 2024
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BABC Happy Hour Organized by the NeXtGen | Emerging Leaders Group | |
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Save the date — Wednesday, March 27th, 2024 — and plan on joining us for the 1st of 3 BABC Happy Hour gatherings organized by the dynamic NeXtGen | Emerging Leaders Group Happy Hours in 2024, in collaboration with the British Benevolent Society (BBS).
Our goal is to unite young ambitious professionals and emerging leaders in their careers with established professionals. We offer the opportunity to expand your network and to connect with industry leaders in a wide variety of fields, under the BABC Northern California umbrella.
If you'd like to join our vibrant group of Emerging Leaders, follow this link. Membership for those 37 and under is just $100 p.a. and provides you with access to ALL BABC networking and educational events at the member rate translating into savings to you and the opportunity to grow your network! Be part of something GREAT!
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DATE:
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 2024
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NeXtGen Leadership Workshop Series:
Empower Now, Leading Self
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BABC and Bia Mindset are thrilled to announce Empower Now: Leading Self, a leadership series focused on developing essential skills for effective self-leadership and leading others. Gain valuable insights, practical tools, and enhance self-awareness to navigate the challenges of the modern workplace with confidence. Start your journey towards personal and professional growth.
Session 1: Identity: Navigating Transitions - Embracing Personal Growth
Join us for a dynamic 90-minute session where we delve into the art of navigating personal and leadership transitions with confidence as well as embracing personal growth. In this immersive experience, we'll explore the psychological and emotional aspects of change, empowering you with practical strategies to thrive amidst these transitions.
Through interactive discussions and reflective exercises, you'll gain a deeper understanding of where you currently are and what you may need to let go of or start doing to successfully make your desired shift. Learn to embrace change as an opportunity for growth, cultivate self-awareness to navigate transitions with clarity, and build resilience to overcome challenges along the way.
Join our community as we embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Let's navigate transitions together and unlock your full potential for growth and fulfillment!
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DATE:
TUESDAY, APRIL 23, 2024
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2024 Spring European Networking Evening | |
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The British American Business Council Northern California, French American Chamber of Commerce San Francisco and German American Business Association in cooperation with many European Chambers of Commerce invite you to join us for another wonderful European Networking Evening, hosted by Premium Member, Cooley.
Come and mingle with entrepreneurs and a range of professionals involved in cross-border business in a relaxed and European atmosphere! Complimentary appetizers, beer, wine and soft drinks will be served.
This event attracts many international business professionals from different European countries. Members of the partnering organizations and their guests have priority access to tickets for this event which is attended by over 100 guests. The perfect networking opportunity!
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DATE:
WEDNESDAY, MAY 1, 2024
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Osborne Clarke Releases Technology, Media & Communications Annual Review 2024
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In 2023, the unexpected impact of generative AI surprised many, including those conducting the annual review. Despite their coverage of the EU AI Act being ahead of the curve, the extent of AI's influence wasn't fully anticipated. Looking ahead to 2024, AI remains a significant focus, as reflected in Osborne Clarke's Technology, Media, and Communications (TMC) Annual Review. Expectations are high for continued AI-driven developments that will keep industries dynamic and demanding throughout the year. | |
Michelmores: Insights on UK/US Charitable Donations & Donor Advised Funds | | |
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Both UK and US taxpayers have long been made aware of the tax benefits of donating money to charity. Although there are benefits to lifetime giving, such as Gift Aid in the UK or the US income tax deduction, law firm Michelmores delves into charitable legacies made on an individual’s death and their UK inheritance tax and US estate tax reliefs. | |
ZEDRA Announces New London Flagship Location | | |
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ZEDRA is delighted to announce the consolidation of its two London locations into a singular flagship office in the heart of London’s financial district. | |
WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS | |
Frias Agency, established in 2006, is an award-winning experiential agency offering full-service events and marketing support, specializing in the media, sports, entertainment, and corporate sectors. We excel in creating dynamic, interactive experiences for brand storytelling, enhancing visibility, customer engagement, and loyalty. Our services extend to web design, SEO, social media, email marketing, and print collateral. | |
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Providentia is a a next-generation tech law firm based in Silicon Valley. We practice at the intersection of law and technology.
Providentia counsels startup, growth and public companies on commercial & corporate law, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance.
We solve the in-house legal dilemma of how to do more for less by providing very high-quality legal services in an innovative, transformative, and competitive manner.
Providentia's dual model of outside counsel and secondment programs attracts top attorney talent and provides lower legal costs to clients. Our model, and our focus on relationship building and growth enablement, distinguish us from both traditional law firms and legal staffing agencies.
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Safari Consultants have been leading experts in tailor-made holidays to Africa for over 40 years. Based in UK, we specialise in 11 countries on mainland Africa – Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Malawi, Mozambique and South Africa – and three Indian Ocean destinations - Mauritius, Seychelles and Madagascar. All our holidays are individually crafted to suit personal requirements, and we provide specialist advice on all styles of safari, from incredible bush luxury to remote camping adventures. We work with couples, families and groups of friends travelling together, offering a very personal and professional service throughout.
Whilst we are known for our in depth safari knowledge, and amazing wildlife safaris are usually at the heart of our holidays, we also specialise in beach extensions and scuba diving, as well as self-drive exploration through countries such as Namibia and South Africa. We are fully bonded for your financial protection.
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YOUNG PROFESSIONAL MEMBERS
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David Mansi
Aundria Mirabrishami
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WITH THANKS TO OUR RENEWING MEMBERS | |
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CCW Business Solutions helps companies develop and execute successful international expansion strategies. Our suite of international payroll, accounting, tax, compliance and HR services is designed to overcome the challenges companies experience when expanding overseas. Our business is to provide our clients with scalable centralized support services delivered through a dedicated support team and a single point of contact. Our aim, supported by our global resource consisting of 650 offices worldwide and 30,000 partners and staff, is to provide you with peace of mind, knowing you are compliant with all international accounting, tax, and HR rules and regulations.
Whether a company is making their first hire in a new country or is looking for a more streamline way to manage their multiple international operations, we can provide a solution that is tailored to their needs.
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Squire Patton Boggs is a global legal firm dedicated to providing expert counsel tailored to the diverse needs of our clients, ranging from Fortune 100 corporations to emerging businesses and governments worldwide. With 47 offices spanning 20 countries, we offer seamless cross-border support, ensuring our clients receive the guidance they need wherever they operate. Our team emphasizes quality, efficiency, and alignment with client goals, continually striving to enhance our service delivery and maximize the value we provide.
Drawing on a blend of legal expertise and industry knowledge, we analyze client requirements to develop customized approaches for each case. By prioritizing client satisfaction and forging lasting relationships, we deliver tested insight and guidance that meet our clients' needs. From advising on complex corporate matters to navigating regulatory landscapes, we are committed to delivering the services our clients want, when and where they need them, with the value they deserve.
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BUSINESS & COMMUNITY PARTNER MEMBERS
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Pound Management Inc. offers construction project management, Owners representation, and support for all aspects of a real estate development project. Experience is key and Pound Management Inc. provides the expertise and leadership to assemble and coordinate a team to achieve our client's objectives.Through this collaborative approach we PLAN THE WORK THEN WORK THE PLAN. | |
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Willow on the Green is your destination for gourmet delights, offering an exquisite selection of British cheeses, fine foods, sparkling wines, and British ales. We are conveniently situated at the Inner Sunset 9th Ave. N stop, just a stone's throw away from Golden Gate Park, Willow on the Green is your one-stop shop for all your culinary and picnic essentials.
In addition to our delectable cheeses and provisions, we invite you to join us for Free Tastings Every Weekend! Every Saturday and Sunday, indulge your taste buds as we showcase exciting flavors and offerings from our extensive cheese collection. Each week, our tastings are thoughtfully curated around a unique theme, providing an educational experience highlighting the diverse styles and varieties Willow offers. Whether you're a connoisseur or simply seeking something new and delicious, Willow on the Green welcomes you to discover a world of culinary delights.
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Guy Carpenter
Jon Passmore
Daphne Royse
Peter Woodhouse
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WITH THANKS TO OUR SUSTAINING
PATRON & PREMIER MEMBERS
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MEMBER-TO-MEMBER OFFERS
Enjoy the perks of being a Member
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One of the benefits of membership in the BABC Northern California is the opportunity to access Member-to-Member-Only special offers and hot deals.
To learn how to access codes and instructions, log in to your BABC Account and click on the Member-to-Member Deals button.
To take advantage of these Member-to-Member offers, join the BABC today to obtain the discount code. Click here to learn more about membership.
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SAVE WITH CURRENCIES DIRECT!
Currencies Direct offers BABC members discounts when using their platform for currency transfers. In addition to no fee when opening an account, you will receive preferential rates on transaction fees. Discounts are tied to amounts transferred. To secure your special rate, following the link below to set up an account. For questions, please contact Amanda Dunn at Amanda.dunn@currenciesdirect.com.
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Log in to your Member account to obtain the discount code for:
A 30-minute free consultation and to take advantage of this special offer
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Log in to your Member account to obtain the discount code for:
A complimentary 60-Minute Initial Consultation with BIA Mindset Founder, Fiona Roberts
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BABC Members get one month membership on Spot+ and Office+ (w/ 6+ mo contract) | | | |
British American Business Council | (415) 296-8645 | info@babcsf.org | www.babcsf.org | |
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