The Swiss Chamber of Commerce in The Netherlands is delighted to welcome Charles Rouse, Lord of South Clifton, as its newest Ambassador. He brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to this role, promising to be a valuable asset to the Chamber and its members. His background blends expertise in seemingly disparate areas, creating a powerful combination of knowledge and skills.
The Lord of South Clifton is a qualified sustainable business expert and former Board member at the EUTECH chambers (European Technology Chamber). This experience provides him with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing businesses in today’s rapidly evolving landscape, particularly in the realm of sustainability. Furthermore, his years of experience in vanilla plantation management have given him first-hand knowledge of agricultural practices, supply chains, and the importance of quality control. This expertise is further enhanced by over 30 years in the high-end culinary field, where he has honed his understanding of consumer demands and market trends.
What sets the Lord of South Clifton apart is his commitment to innovation and his drive to find solutions to pressing global issues. He is currently pioneering a new Agri-tech solution for sustainable intensive crop cultivation. This innovative approach integrates Circular Economic Management (CEM) processes, aiming to combat climate change by localizing high-value crop cultivation. His work in this area exemplifies his forward-thinking approach and his dedication to creating a more sustainable future.
The Lord of South Clifton’s business acumen is evident in his track record of running succesfull companies. He possesses a clear perspective of vanilla and bamboo production and importation, emphasizing consistency, quality control, and in-depth product knowledge. This expertise will be invaluable in his role as Ambassador, where he will be responsible for promoting the Swiss Chamber of Commerce and its activities in Europe. He will also play a key role in developing and implementing initiatives to support businesses operating in the European market.
The Swiss Chamber of Commerce is confident that the Lord of South Clifton’s diverse expertise, combined with his passion for sustainability and innovation, will make him a highly effective Ambassador. His appointment signals the Chamber’s commitment to fostering collaboration and supporting businesses in navigating the complexities of the modern global economy.
The Lord of South Clifton succeeded to the title previously held by the Trustees of the Dukes of Newcastle. Further adding to his distinguished profile, the Lord of South Clifton is a Knight Grand Cross in the Ordre du Temple, a French Order of Knighthood made public in France in 1705 by Philippe II, Duke of Orléans. This prestigious honour recognizes his commitment to chivalry, philanthropy, and the preservation of historical and cultural heritage. Notable members included: Admiral Sir William Sidney Smith, GCB, GCTE, KmstkSO, FRS (1764–1840), Charles Tennyson d’Eyncourt (1784–1861), Prince Augustus-Frederick, Duke of Sussex (1773-1843), Dom Pedro I, emperor of Brazil (1798-1834), and the Duke of Choiseul-Stainville, peer of France (1760-1838). The order was officially reconstituted in 1804 by Dr. Bernard-Raymond Fabré-Palaprat, chevalier Legion of Honour, who used the Larmenius Charter (currently preserved at Mark Masons Hall, London) as evidence of its pedigree. The Order was approved by Napoleon in 1811, and recognized by Napoleon III in 1853.