I am incredibly proud, humbled, and (as per recent updates) honestly quite shocked to share that I have been named the winner of the Rising Talent in Trade Award 2026 at the prestigious International Trade Awards, hosted by the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade.
The award was presented during a reception at the House of Lords, celebrating individuals and organisations making a significant contribution to international trade across the UK and beyond.
To be recognised by such a respected institution is a tremendous honour, particularly when considering the calibre of this year’s finalists. Congratulations must go to fellow shortlisted candidates, Ian Poulter (Frontier Medical Group), and Nikki Holmes (Avon Protection), whose achievements in international trade are equally deserving of recognition.
Earlier this year, I was delighted simply to be shortlisted for the award. To now be announced as the winner is something I genuinely did not expect.
For me, this award reflects far more than an individual achievement. It represents the collective efforts of the people, organisations, and networks that have supported my development throughout my international trade journey.
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Lesley Batchelor, Sue Wright and Kevin Shakespeare, whose guidance, encouragement, and expertise have played a significant role in my professional growth. I am also grateful to Anna Doherty and Ilona Kawka for helping ensure my training and knowledge remain current in an ever-evolving global trade landscape.
A special thank you must also go to the team at Boex Limited. Their innovation, collaboration, and commitment to improving international trade processes have continually inspired me and provided opportunities to turn challenges into meaningful progress.
At Jointine Products, international trade is at the heart of what we do. As a UK manufacturer exporting to more than 50 countries worldwide, we experience first-hand both the opportunities and complexities that global trade presents for SMEs.
This recognition reinforces my passion for helping businesses navigate those challenges and embrace the opportunities that digitalisation, innovation, and collaboration can bring.
Speaking at the awards reception, Marco Forgione, Director General of the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade, congratulated all winners and noted that their achievements were “an inspiration to everyone working in international trade.”
I am incredibly grateful to be included among this year’s winners and would like to congratulate all those recognised across the various award categories.
While it is wonderful to celebrate this milestone, I see it less as a destination and more as motivation for what comes next… There is still much work to be done to support SMEs, improve trade efficiency, and ensure businesses of all sizes can thrive in international markets.
Thank you to everyone who has supported me on this journey so far. I am excited for the opportunities ahead and look forward to continuing to champion British manufacturing and international trade.
— Jane Cullen
Managing Director
Jointine Products (Lincoln) Ltd
About the International Trade Awards
Organised by the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade, the International Trade Awards recognise outstanding achievements across the global trade community. The 2026 awards celebrated excellence in customs, manufacturing, sustainability, food and drink exports, innovation, and international trade leadership, with winners announced at a reception hosted at the House of Lords.
