China’s growing global influence presents both opportunity and risk. This exclusive event will explore how shifting power dynamics in trade, technology, political, financial and law are reshaping the international business landscape.

Gain insights from top experts to help your organisation navigate the complexities of doing business with China.

Speakers

Guri Melby

The current leader of the Liberal Party (Venstre). She has been a Member of Parliament for Oslo since 2021 and serves as the second vice chair of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence. Melby served as Minister of Education and Integration from March 2020 to October 2021 in Prime Minister Erna Solberg’s government. 

Her political career began in local government, serving on the municipal councils of Orkdal (1999–2007) and Trondheim (2007–2011). She was Oslo’s City Commissioner for Transport and the Environment from 2013 to 2015. Melby holds a master’s degree in Nordic language and literature from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and has a background in education and public service. As party leader since September 2020, she has emphasised liberal values, environmental sustainability, and international cooperation.

Nathan Bush

Is a leading expert on antitrust, trade, and anti-corruption issues across Asia, with deep experience in China for DLA Piper. Based in Asia since 2004, Nate advises global companies on navigating Chinese competition law, trade sanctions, and compliance challenges. He has represented clients in high-stakes investigations and enforcement actions, offering unique insights into China’s legal and regulatory landscape.

Geir Hågen Larsen 

Associated partner in Communications at Geelmuyden Kiese (GK), advising on geopolitics, security, and strategic communication. With nearly 40 years in the Norwegian Armed Forces, he served as a lieutenant colonel and was the leading expert on influence operations and strategic communication, including roles at the Defence University College and the Chief of Defence’s Crisis Staff.

Bernt J. Berg - Nielsen

A Norwegian investor and portfolio manager at Stolt Kapitalforvaltning, where he manages the Stolt Explorer fund. His investment philosophy is deeply influenced by Warren Buffett, emphasising long-term value creation and disciplined capital allocation. Berg-Nielsen is known for his global investment approach, with a particular focus on Nordic markets, and regularly shares insights on investment strategies and market trends. 

In addition to his professional endeavours, Berg-Nielsen is an active participant in the investment community, often engaging in discussions and interviews to share his perspectives on investing and life principles.

Gørild Merethe Heggelund, PHD

A Research Professor at the Fridtjof Nansen Institute, specialising in China’s environmental, energy, and climate policies for over 30 years. She leads two major research projects on critical minerals in the Arctic and China’s role in global environmental governance. A fluent Chinese speaker with 17 years’ experience in China, she has served as Senior Climate Change Advisor at UNDP China and is currently an international expert for the China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development (CCICED).

Cathrin Bretzeg

The Chief People & Culture Officer at HydrogenPro, bringing over two decades of leadership experience across human resources, communications, and sustainability. She joined the company in 2023, following senior roles at Glitre Nett, Magseis Fairfield ASA, Kongsberg Digital, and others. Bretzeg also has a notable political background, having served as State Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development under Prime Minister Kjell Magne Bondevik. 

Moderator

Håkon Borud, Chair of the BNCC, Partner First House 

A Partner and Senior Communications Advisor at First House, bringing extensive experience from journalism and strategic communications. He has held key editorial positions at prominent Norwegian newspapers, including Aftenposten. Since transitioning to communications in 2016, Borud has specialised in guiding organisations through change processes, digital transformation, and media relations.

In addition to his role as partner at First House, Borud serves as Chair of the British-Norwegian Chamber of Commerce (BNCC), a position he has held since 2022. He has been instrumental in strengthening UK-Norway business relations, particularly in energy security and critical infrastructure.

Please note that spaces are limited, so we kindly ask you to RSPV at your earliest convenience to secure your place and avoid disappointment. 

We look forward to welcoming you at DLA Piper. 

Warmest regards,

The British Norwegian Chamber of Commerce