Filippo Battaini and Sarah Matkin are both newly appointed research advisors at the SYITC, based at Sheffield Chamber of Commerce while Anthony Bradbury has joined the team as data processing clerk.

And Italian-born Filippo has swapped the Scottish branch of the Italian Chamber of Commerce for Sheffield! His previous role at the Edinburgh-based Chamber involved the promotion of trade relations between Italy and the UK.

Said Filippo (29): "I am really happy about joining the SYITC because I think that my new role will allow me to deal with different markets - a factor that I find interesting and challenging."

Sarah (22) has recently graduated with a degree that also prepares her for her role dealing with businesses all over the world at the trade centre.  

She said: "I have just graduated from Sheffield Hallam University with a degree in International Business Studies. I have previously worked at General Electric and Enterprise Rent-a-Car, so this is a major opportunity for me and I am looking forward to my future career with the company.

"I love my new job and I really enjoy finding out about different companies and researching."

Anthony (26) has moved from a job in Watford back up to the city where he studied to join the SYITC. Originally from Warrington, he completed an Applied Statistics degree at Sheffield Hallam University.

He said  "The SYITC is a great environment to work in and plays a fantastic role in helping businesses increase their international trade. I'm responsible for ensuring that all shared data is accurate and that everything runs smoothly so it's a very challenging role but its one that I'm enjoying."

The SYITC is supported by a three year £7.41million funding package issued jointly by Yorkshire Forward, the European Regional Development Fund and UK Trade and Investment under contract with Business Link South Yorkshire. The SYITC provides essential international trade related services including expert advice, market information, research and grant support.