Jo Ahmed is new Honorary Consul of Japan in Manchester

Deloitte partner Jo Ahmed has been appointed by the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan as Honorary Consul of Japan in Manchester to further boost the relationship between Manchester and Japan.

Ahmed, who leads Deloitte’s Global Employer Services team in the North West, officially takes up the new role with the Japanese Government from today (Thursday, January 4).

She replaces the former Honorary Consul Mr Peter Heginbotham, who retired from the position at the end of 2017 after 10 years.

Ahmed has more than 20 years’ experience in working with international businesses. At Deloitte, her clients range from entrepreneurial businesses newly engaging in overseas expansion to large multinationals, including Japanese companies such as Brother and Japan Tobacco.

In her new role, she will continue to provide support for Japanese businesses, promote a better understanding of Japan, oversee cultural events and foster cordial relations with the city and regional authorities, which will assist the Embassy in its mission.

Ahmed said: “I have been a proud supporter of the Japanese business community throughout my career and I’m honoured to take on this new position. This is a bilateral role which means I will be supporting Japanese companies that have a presence in the region, as well as North West firms that are looking to trade with Japan.

“With the Rugby World Cup 2019 and Tokyo 2020 Olympics just around the corner, the next few years are going to be especially exciting for Japan. These significant sporting events will help to generate greater awareness of Japan and enhance further opportunities for collaboration.

“Over the last 10 years, Peter has been a fantastic advocate for Japanese relations and has done an excellent job in connecting stakeholders across the city. I look forward to continuing his legacy in helping to further boost trade and investment links between Manchester and Japan.”