Meet the Team
This week we learn more about our Consultancy Executive, Renata. Read on to find out what Renata loves most about her job, the importance of understanding customs regulations, how many languages she speaks and advice on decision making!
Question time!
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am originally from Italy but I moved over to the UK when I was 15 to join an international college in Cambridge. I have now lived in the UK for over 22 years and I am married to an English man and have 2 beautiful children.
I speak 4 languages and I love the chance to practice them.
What do you do at ChamberCustoms?
I am a Consultancy Executive and I help businesses in need of customs advice by spending time with them understanding their needs and guiding them through our consultancy services.
What’s your favourite bit about your job?
I love listening to our customers and reassuring them when it is clear that their customs challenges are causing stress and pressure. There is so much information out there on the web yet it can be incredibly hard for traders to decipher everything and understand what is relevant to them and what isn’t. Often, businesses contact us because they are overwhelmed by all the new regulations and they simply need an expert who can guide them through the process and point them in the right direction.
What’s the biggest misconception people have about customs clearance?
I often spend time with businesses explaining the basics of importing goods into the UK and their roles and responsibilities. When the UK was part of the European Union, traders only had to learn about customs formalities if dealing with customers outside of the EU. Since Brexit, businesses face completely new challenges and often lack the knowledge to understand customs requirements. This, in turn, can have a detrimental effect on their commercial wellbeing if not handled correctly which is why it is great to have a customs expert on your side!
What advice would you give a business which is considering exporting overseas?
Do your homework and seek expert advice. Preparation, knowledge and expertise are key for success when it comes to compliance with HMRC requirements.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
I love spending time with my friends and family, eating together and going for walks. I have a massive passion for mental wellbeing so I also run my own private practice coaching adults and children.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
When you have to make a decision in your life and you can’t seem to do it, it’s because you are not ready to make it. When the time is right within you, you will make the decision as quickly as flicking a switch (paraphrased from a coaching masterclass taught by author and coach Jamie Smart).
If you could choose a superpower, what would it be?
Teletransportation.