University and Silverstone put wheels in motion on ambitious China project

The University of Northampton has strengthened its partnership with the Home of British Motorsport by signing an official strategic international agreement.

The University’s China and Emerging Economies Centre (CEEC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Silverstone Circuits Ltd (SCL) to help forge a strategic partnership as SCL looks to explore opportunities in China.

According to the MOU, the CEEC will help SCL to develop a suitable programme with the aim of ‘Exporting Silverstone to China’ using the resources, expertise and networks of both parties.

Head of Partnerships for SCL, Chris Zachar, recently met with Dr Mairi Watson, Dean of the University’s Faculty of Business and Law and Dr Shaowei He, Director of CEEC, at the Speed Machine Festival to sign the agreement and discuss further areas of collaboration.

Chris Zachar, said: “As part of our plans to develop Silverstone, it is important to consider how we engage with new and emerging markets.  The opportunity to explore an audience outside of the UK is exciting, particularly as we are a globally recognised brand.  The expertise, knowledge and access that Shaowei and the CEEC team bring gives Silverstone a unique view when exploring opportunities in China.”

Dr Shaowei He, Associate Professor in International Business, said: “We have been working with Silverstone since 2017 and we are really pleased to sign this MOU with them. We are currently exploring some exciting opportunities for Silverstone and will continue to do so as part of our wider efforts of facilitating a stronger and closer business relationship between the UK and China.”