Penelope Ridings
Fun Fact:
I am passionate about protecting the ocean environment and ensuring the use of sustainable fishing practices.
I am particularly interested in the nexus between trade and the environment and the adoption of trade measures which serve to protect the environment while not succumbing to trade protectionism.
I am a New Zealand International Lawyer and Honorary Professor of Law at the University of Auckland practising in the field of public international law, including international trade and investment law, and international dispute settlement. In 2021 I was appointed as a Member of the United Nations International Law Commission for the term 2023-2027. I have worked as Counsel and arbitrator in international litigation, including as a WTO panellist. I am current a member of the pool of arbitrators of the WTO Multi-Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement. Before entering sole practice, I was a career diplomat with the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, where I became New Zealand’s Chief International Trade Law Adviser and later New Zealand’s Chief International Legal Adviser. I have extensive practical experience in negotiating trade access agreements and in interpreting and applying international trade agreements. This included roles as the Legal Counsel for the negotiation of free trade agreements between New Zealand and Thailand, New Zealand and Chile, Singapore and Brunei Darussalam, and New Zealand and Korea. I also served as New Zealand’s Ambassador to Poland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania (2008-2011) and High Commissioner to Samoa (2001-2004).
Who do you look up to in the trade world and why? We would love to know the women trade expert that inspire you!
Early in my trade career, there were few women role models and the trade field was dominated by men. But I observed Jennifer Hillman, who was not only a great trade lawyer and arbitrator, but a intelligent and thoughtful person. I saw her as someone to whom I could aspire to be like.
In a couple of lines, share with us what inspires you to be part of the TradeExperettes community. Or What is your favorite thing about your career?
My favorite thing is being able to contribute to women trade experts and pay it forward to those who are at earlier stages in their careers.
BONUS QUESTION
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BONUS QUESTION 〰️
What career advice would you give to your younger self? What tips can you give to someone trying to pursue a career in trade?
It is important to find mentors who can guide you in your career. Although there may be setbacks and it is difficult to balance different roles and responsibilities, perseverance will ultimately be rewarded.
