Airmic cancels annual conference

The Association of Risk and Insurance Managers had taken the difficult decision to cancel its annual conference, which had been due to be held in Edinburgh in June. In a statement to the press, Airmic chief executive John Ludlow explained that concerns over health and safety amid the coronavirus outbreak had prompted the decision.

“I think we can all agree that it has been a surreal start to the year considering developments associated with the rapid spread of the Covid-19 illness,” he said.

“As we worked through our risk management process and considered different scenarios, it became clear that we need to stop the planning for our June annual conference in Edinburgh because of the coronavirus pandemic.

“We have taken this decision reluctantly. Our focus has to remain on the well-being of the risk community and an awareness of our wider responsibility to support the fight against the virus - health and safety remains our priority.

“We know that the conference is a highlight of the risk management calendar and appreciate how much time and effort has already been invested by our members, partners, exhibitors, the Airmic team and the many other people involved in the conference planning. We would like to thank everyone for their support and hard work.

“These exceptional circumstances have highlighted the value of intelligent risk management, and Airmic has transformed itself into a virtual association in order that we can continue to support members and stakeholders through our education, training and technical output,” added Ludlow.

“If there are opportunities to hold networking events including the ERM Forum and the Annual Dinner later in the year, then we will. However, a large conference which takes months to organise is highly unlikely to occur this year.

“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by coronavirus, and we pledge to play our part as a responsible organisation in helping to overcome this crisis.”