As we come to the end of the year, we can look back at many accomplishments during 2016 and a great deal to look forward to during 2017.

We adopted a vision and strategy plan at the general assembly in June 2016, and we have made significant steps along our journey to a world where risk management is embedded in the business model and culture of European organisations.

I believe we are truly building a European risk management community. Already we can see:

• The successful launch of rimap which creates European recognition in risk management. We now have 18 rimap certified risk managers. This number will grow.
• Greater involvement with our member associations, especially because they will be taking forward the development of rimap. We published our network brochure and have been participating in the events of many of our member associations.
• Recognition of FERMA as a stakeholder in discussions with the European Commission and OECD on topics such as cyber risk, captives and environmental liability.

In 2017, we will continue our themes of education, communication and leadership. This is why our title of “Risk manager in pole position” for the Forum in October is so appropriate. It is not just that we will be in Monte Carlo, but also that we will be putting risk leadership on the podium.

We are developing our partnership with our sponsors in the insurance industry and beyond.  They will be valuable in terms of education; we know that there is a great deal of technical expertise in these organisations that they want to share with us. They will also help us develop our events, widening the content.

We are creating a public affairs committee and technical working groups to strengthen our advocacy activities and ensure greater political impact. Through these committees, we will have closer communication with our members about the European issues that are really relevant to them and their work.

Over the next years I see this community steadily growing into an ever more influential voice for risk management in Europe. FERMA is delighted to welcome all our members, their members and others with an interest in risk management to work together with us.

I wish you all a wonderful holiday and a happy new year!