Export champion Lord Green has been confirmed as the guest speaker at Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Dinner.

Lord Green was made Trade and Investment Minister last year, with special responsibility for delivering a government trade strategy and attracting international investment.

He came to Manchester in December to host the first Regional Challenge: Exporting for Growth event. He told businesses at the time that too few of them were exporting and urged them to collaborate to win orders overseas.

Clive Memmott, Chief Executive of Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, said: “I’m delighted Lord Green has agreed to be the guest speaker at our Annual Dinner.

“This will be a unique opportunity for Greater Manchester businesses to hear first hand from someone at the heart of the Government’s export strategy.

“His visit comes as the Government tries to rebalance the economy and promote growth through exports. He will have much to say about the global opportunities for businesses, particularly in emerging markets such as India.

“Lord Green entered government after a highly successful and substantial career in international business. He has a refreshing and straightforward view to pursue a long-term strategy to encourage and help more SMEs to export; working effectively with Chambers of Commerce and other intermediaries to make this happen.”

Before becoming Trade and Investment Minister, Lord Green had a 28-year career with HSBC, which saw his appointment as Group Chairman of HSBC Holdings in 2006. He was also Chairman of the British Bankers' Association and the Prime Minister's Business Council for Britain.

The international theme of the Annual Dinner continues with the confirmation of United Airlines as the main sponsor.

Those who attend the dinner will also hear from Chamber President Martin Douglas, who was awarded the OBE in the New Year’s Honours List for his services to industry. Martin is General Manager of Trafford Park-based Cargill PLC, which celebrated its 100th anniversary last year.

The black tie dinner is the highlight of Greater Manchester's business calendar and attracted a record-breaking 850 business leaders last year.

This year the entertainment will be provided by award-winning comedian Chris Addison. Chris received a British Comedy Award nomination for his role in TV’s cutting edge political comedy The Thick of It. He was also Academy Award nominated for his appearance in the film In the Loop.

The Annual Dinner will take place on March 8th between 6.15pm and 11.15pm at Manchester Central. To book a place contact Lisa Wroe on 0161 237 4491 or email lisa.wroe@gmchamber.co.uk