Colin McCabrey is the Director of Trade at InterTradeIreland, leading an experienced team that enhances opportunities for cross-border trade, innovation, and investor readiness. InterTradeIreland is the only organisation that has been given responsibility by both governments to boost North-South economic cooperation to the joint benefit of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Colin’s focus is on growing the capability of businesses, increasing all-island trade through export and raising productivity in the mutual interest of the two administrations. Colin is spearheading growth through the delivery of InterTradeIreland’s key strategic priorities in these areas. As InterTradeIreland celebrates its 25th anniversary, cross-border trade in 2023 hit a new high of €15bn, increasing from €2bn in 1998 when the Good Friday Agreement was signed. Colin’s specialist team provides technical support to businesses, helping them to navigate recent changes to trade requirements arising from BREXIT. They also help shorten business supply chains for greater economic resilience and provide businesses with access to commercial opportunities on the island for enhanced cross-border collaboration and innovation.
Colin previously gained 20+ years experience working with local authorities, including Belfast City Council, on economic revitalization schemes. These initiatives concentrated on regenerating communities by shaping spaces through investment, international relations, talent development and entrepreneurship. This included leading a new £10m Innovation Centre development on a sensitive Belfast City peace line and being a key architect of the current £850m Belfast Region City Deal.