Is uncertainty the new opportunity?

Whether the first phase of the Gaza peace deal announced brings longer-term stability and a positive effect on uncertainty more generally, remains to be seen.

In this edition of Airmic News we focus on emerging risks. Emerging risks and uncertainty are often deeply connected – making them difficult to quantify, predict or manage using more traditional risk systems and methodologies.

Coping with and converting opportunities from emerging risks demands business leaders with digital fluency, intergenerational intelligence, curiosity-driven approaches and a focus on purpose with sustainability.

As risk professionals, we also need to embrace the same leadership characteristics and use them to bridge differences in values, behaviours, culture and experiences, which can lead to misunderstandings and tensions. Risk professionals need to be able to judge when to move forward and when to hold back.

This month we move forward as I announced my decision to retire as Airmic CEO in April 2026. It has been an honour and my privilege to lead Airmic. I hope that I have demonstrated and encouraged the above characteristics!

Serving Airmic has been the highlight of my career and I have loved every moment. I am proud of all we have achieved together.

But the time is right for a change. I look forward to introducing my successor, Diane Maxwell, who will formally join us in November as CEO Designate, working alongside me to ensure a smooth and planned transition.

I will remain in the risk, insurance and resilience profession as an Airmic member focusing on a number of captive insurance companies as an independent non-executive director and a small portfolio of projects.

Julia Graham, CEO, Airmic