Conference attendance doubles in a decade as late registrations pour in

The number of members attending the Airmic annual conference will be the highest ever this year – and more than a double the total of a decade ago.  With two weeks to go registrations were continuing to pour in. The total was heading towards 500 – almost half the membership.

Overall attendance, including speakers, journalists and other non-members, is also certain to beat last year’s record of 883 and is expected to be not far short of the 1,000 mark. To put that figure into context, that compares to 449 in 2002 before attendances started their steady climb to today’s level.

“The fact that nearly half of Airmic members are taking the trouble to come to our annual conference shows a remarkable level of engagement and demonstrates the relevance of what we are doing,” said chief executive John Hurrell. “I am delighted that we are going to have the biggest-ever risk management gathering in the UK as the quality and number of delegates makes it the unmissable occasion it has become.”

Apart from being an extension of a long-term trend, the jump in numbers can be explained partly by a new emphasis on youth, with the fastTrack scheme for less experienced risk managers having a substantial presence at the conference. fastTrack will have a break-out session and reception on Wednesday 18th, as well as a dedicated stand.

Another innovation this year is the introduction of Airmic TV, which will give an airing to speakers, workshop leaders and other participants. Also on the Wednesday members, will be able to see for themselves the long-awaited database of regulations being unveiled by insurance information specialists Axco.

The exhibition area, now a well-established attraction of the conference, is the biggest ever. Spaces sold out within a fortnight of becoming available.

How conference attendances are rising

Welcome to conference-goers from the chairman

I would like to extend a warm welcome to everyone coming to the conference. The fact that there will be so many people, following on the record attendance at the annual dinner, demontrates the continuing and growing momentum behind Airmic.

Excellent as the programme is, the delegates are even more important than the presenters. This year the quality and range of risk managers present is going to be bigger and better than ever. This fact makes it a superb opportunity to network, exchange ideas and renew old friendships.

I hope you have a really interesting, informative and enjoyable few days with us in Birmingham.

Kind regards,

Chris McGloin

Airmic chairman

Chris McGloin - Airmic Chairman