A seasonal greeting from the British Consul General, Dr Phil Budden
As the holidays approach, I wanted to wish you and yours all the very best for a very merry holiday season.
The year 2009 has certainly had its challenges. (British understatement!) Many of us were affected by the economic downturn, especially those in the financial sector. But we have made it to the end of the year, and have enjoyed working with you. It is through such partnerships between Britain and New England that we make a difference, and we look forward to working with you again in 2009.
Looking back over 2009, my staff and I were struck by the major developments for the British Consulate itself, and as we have shifted our focus and moved location. My deputy and Corporate Services Team moved offices for us, maintaining our commitment to this 'hub of innovation' by moving into an MIT building, and staying close to the action in Kendall Square. (We also celebrated the 200th anniversary of the Residence, following major refurbishments this year.) We forged a partnership with Harvard's Kennedy School on a number of projects: with my Press & Public Affairs (PPA) Team, one resulted in Harvard students and faculty providing input into the UK's G20 London Summit. Our Science and Innovation (S&I) Team deepened our strategic relationship with MIT, and we hosted MIT's President, Susan Hockfield, at an event marking the strong research ties between the UK and this leading institution. The UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) Team had another outstanding year, helping businesses in Britain and New England grow: we capped off the year with a visit by Britain's 'Business Ambassador', Lord Jones, to Boston. Throughout the year, the Consular Team professionally provided their services and assisted Brits in distress.
Noting our changes, The Boston Globe profiled us on its front page, identifying us as a 'leading-edge outpost' with a focus on science, technology, trade and investment. And I visited Boston, England - the 'mother city' of Boston, Massachusetts - to mark the 700th anniversary of its St. Botolph's Church, from which the English Puritans departed for New England.
With 2009 almost behind us, it's clear to me that the British Consulate's focus on business, research and technology will be even more important in 2010, as we work to help grow our economies, and support businesses from either side of the pond. We already have many plans for the start of the New Year, focused on strengthening our relationships across New England's vast innovation ecosystem. I look forward to working with you, and having you over to our new office, in what we intend to make a more prosperous year for all!
All the best for the holidays, and see you in 2010
Phil
Dr Phil Budden
Consul General
Boston MA, USA
Visit our website at by clicking here.
Follow us on Twitter: @UKinBoston
http://www.linkedin.com/in/philbudden |
