One year on since the UK voted to leave the European Union, a new study reveals widespread indifference towards the European Union among non-British national directors at the forefront of British businesses—many of whom have profited from the core principles of the project.

The International Directors Study, commissioned by communications consultancy, Eulogy, is an annual report of the attitudes and business confidence of 200 non-British nationals working as company directors in the UK, spanning an even spread of business sizes – from micro-businesses and SMEs through to large organisations (turnover of more than £500 million).

The study shows a clear majority of respondents (84 per cent) believing that Brexit could result in the disintegration of the EU entirely. Yet four in five (81 per cent) believe that Britain’s departure offers an opportunity for their business; regardless of its consequences on the future health of the trading bloc.

Moreover, the research, which was carried out prior to the recent shock general election result, reveals an upbeat assessment among non-British directors in the government’s ability to ensure Britain’s position for international trade post-Brexit, with over three quarters (82 per cent) reporting confidence in its likelihood of achieving a positive outcome.

More than half (54 per cent) said they expect their revenues to grow in the next 12 months. Moreover, one in every two respondents (49 per cent) strongly disagrees that their company will struggle to attract international talent.
Despite this, more than two thirds (77 per cent), are modernising or plan to modernise their business to attract more talent in the future.

Adrian Brady, chief exec, Eulogy, says, “Understanding the sentiment of non-UK directors not only provides an indication of how the international community views Britain, but highlights the levels of confidence among a group who themselves relocated to Britain off the back of the promise of opportunity and to enhance their career prospects.

“Whilst it’s encouraging that Brexit is being viewed so optimistically by this demographic, all eyes will be on ensuring that negotiations deliver the kind of confident, pro-business environment that has culminated in the UK being one of the most successful, internationally diverse centres in the world for both business leaders and international talent alike.”

Gianpiero Lotito, co-founder and CEO of Italian technology company FacilityLive, says, “In the year since the vote, it remains clear that UK technology companies are a strong force in Europe and so the ecosystem of successful innovation on the continent will continue to bind the European and UK technology scene together. For businesses such as ours, who already have relationships within the UK business and financial services sectors, Brexit may be an opportunity to build stronger collaboration and trade relationships.