At the International Trade Institute, we’re proud of our professionals who are driving real impact in the world of gl obal trade. David Mansbridge, Trade Controls Compliance Manager at Vodafone Group Services Limited (VGSL) tells us about his professional experience. With a career rooted in export controls and a deepening focus on customs and logistics, David shares how the evolving landscape of international trade is shaping his work and how professional development helped him meet the challenge.

Can you tell us a little about your role and your company?
Vodafone is a leading multinational digital services conglomerate, serving consumers, small businesses, and enterprise customers across the globe. Within the group, Vodafone Group Services (VGS) acts as a central engine, powering areas like technology, legal, and tax. David joined VGS as an experienced export controls specialist, bringing with him a wealth of expertise from his time at Symbian Software and Nokia.

Today, David leads trade controls compliance for Group Technology, ensuring Vodafone’s global operations, from deploying network infrastructure to delivering new digital services, remain compliant with trade regulations. This includes managing tangible exports like hardware and intangible ones such as software and firmware.

What challenges do you face in international trade?
David points to geopolitical shifts as major disruptors in recent years. “US restrictions on chipsets and US-origin components drastically changed our relationship with Huawei,” he explains. Brexit introduced another layer of complexity, leading to unexpected distribution issues and increased shipping costs - forcing structural changes to supply chain and spare parts management.

How does trade compliance impact your work?
The increasing weaponisation of sanctions and trade controls, particularly from the US Department of Commerce and OFAC, has heightened the complexity and risk in Vodafone’s global operations. “We’re not a manufacturer, but we still need to deliver products and services worldwide. These changes have increased the cost and risk of doing so.”

What led you to pursue the Diploma in International Trade Compliance?
Although David was well-versed in dual-use export controls, his growing responsibilities in customs and logistics uncovered some knowledge gaps. “I needed a training programme that would give me a recognised qualification and quickly build my understanding,” he says. The International Trade Institute’s programme ticked all the boxes.

What impact has the programme had on your role?
The course gave David a solid foundation in customs and broader trade controls, significantly enhancing his ability to advise the business. From helping determine the valuation of goods to supporting logistics proposals in the EU, the knowledge he gained translated directly into practical value.

“Having that awareness and access to the right resources has made me more confident, and more valuable to the team.”

What was the most valuable part of the course?
“Understanding the complex nature of import duty determination, customs valuation, and country of origin rules, topics that are critical and highly complex.”

Would you recommend this programme to others?
“Yes, absolutely, especially for those newer to the field or looking to deepen their understanding of trade controls and customs. The programme offers both essential knowledge and access to valuable resources.”

How has your approach to trade compliance changed since completing the programme?
David notes that his approach hasn’t changed, but his confidence and knowledge have grown significantly. “I’m better informed, better equipped and ultimately happier in my role. And I’m proud to have completed a programme of this calibre.”

David’s story exemplifies the value of continuous professional development in navigating the fast-changing world of global trade. We're delighted to feature him as a Global Trade Ambassador and thank him for sharing his journey with us.

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