About

Akemi Associates provides international business development and consultancy services for STEM businesses.

Since founding Akemi Associates in 2018 Susan has successfully established a portfolio of interests. Building on the foundations of over 30 years’ experience in the manufacturing sector; commercial management, stakeholder engagement, marketing and international business development. Throughout her career Susan has worked with clients across the globe including Europe, the USA, and Japan. Her expertise is derived primarily from the chemical manufacturing sector and she has also worked for 2 major UK financial institutions, most recently as Head of Chemical Sector at Santander UK. This was a strategic role in which her remit was to help the business understand the needs of the chemical industry and thereby develop tailored financial solutions to facilitate growth.

https://www.businessleader.co.uk/santander-makes-new-national-appointment/58689/

A Physical Natural Sciences – Chemical Engineering graduate from the University of Cambridge, Susan passionately believes in the importance of innovation in science & engineering, as applied to the manufacturing sector, for building a more sustainable society.

Mentoring of start-up businesses is a particular focus. In 2019 Susan took on the challenge of driving the former University of York green chemistry spin out, Starbons Ltd,  towards commercial success.

Why Akemi Associates?

• Business needs analysis – with a strong techno-commercial perspective
• Strategic thinking and detailed, complex problem solving
• Dynamic and professional approach undertaken with diligence, discretion, energy, resilience and tenacity
• Established connections across industries, and across continents
• Collaborative partnerships founded on integrity and trust
• We do what we say we will do

Testimonials for Susan Brench

Linda Arntzen

Vice President of Sales & Marketing at PHT International, Inc.

I have had the absolute pleasure of working with Susan for about 10 years. In short, she is someone I much admire in industry. Susan is exceptionally professional, diligent, efficient, and well connected. In our projects together, Susan’s approach has always been: Do we know all that we can? Let’s get to a solution. In our work together, it has been across industries and often times, international.

Equal to her professionalism, she is also extremely engaging and personable. Susan is a great at developing and nurturing relationships. There is trust and follow through.

Susan’s commitment and energy will only allow for a successful outcome.

Brian Meldrum

Managing Director at FUJIFILM Imaging Colorants Limited

I have worked with Susan for over 25 years and have come to regard her as someone with a really extensive knowledge of the chemical/fine chemical industry. Susan is highly regarded for her professionalism and displays the upmost integrity and discretion in all business matters. Susan is extremely well connected throughout the industry and has proven excellent first hand experience of working in all the major international markets. On a personal level I can also say Susan is an extremely personable and engaging individual.