Back to basics: why simplicity and clarity matter more than ever

This year we have spent a little more time asking members what they want from the three days. As a result, you will see a Confessions of a Risk Manager seminar on the programme alongside other member led sessions, as well as AI expert, Dr Keith Dear, delivering a keynote and Q&A.

The conference theme for 2026 is Back to Basics. As the world becomes more complex, we are reflecting on the value of simplicity and clarity. The ever-present theme for Airmic (and maybe our secret sauce) is ‘people’ because, despite the shift online and the growing presence of AI, risk and insurance remain sectors where relationships matter, and long may that continue.

A perfect storm

After a couple of months in the role of CEO I have had time to get out and listen to members, and my sense is that there is more we can do to support you. The risk landscape is presenting a perfect storm of rapidly evolving risks, many of which would have been on the distant horizon five years ago but are now firmly ‘in the room’ and on the agenda.

We have created a new role on our management team of Head of Members and Marketing and recruitment is underway. Their focus will be to get closer to members, build a great portal and CRM system, support our regional events, reports, thought leadership and professional learning programmes, so that we can do more and do better.

I have said a few times that I have my listening ears on firmly on, and I do. I look forward to seeing you at conference if not before, and in the meantime, I hope you enjoy this issue of Airmic News.

Diane Maxwell, CEO