Stepping into the role of RIMS President, one of the first thoughts is RISKWORLD, the premier global gathering for risk professionals. What conversations will define the moment and shape our collective futures? How will we challenge conventional thinking? And, how will we continue to evolve as architects of resilience in an increasingly interconnected world?
While each RISKWORLD introduces something new, what remains constant is its unmatched ability to bring our global community together. The year’s theme, “Connect. Cultivate. Collaborate.” captures the essence of what makes this event so valuable to the more than 10,000 professionals joining us in Philadelphia.
Our connections begin immediately at the RISKWORLD Opening Reception on May 3 at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It is a great opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and expand our professional networks that are so critical to our enterprise risk management functions. Join us in our strategic Advocacy activities. Those who support RISK PAC, the RIMS political action committee, are invited to an early-access reception that offers a more intimate setting to engage while advancing RIMS advocacy efforts. There is still time to donate to RISK PAC and gain access to this VIP event. Go to the online RISKWORLD Attendee Center to register or speak with a RIMS staff member while picking up your conference badge. Here is the RISKWORLD Schedule-At-A-Glance that includes the RISKWORLD Registration and Badge-Pick-Up Hours.
Throughout the week, the RISKWORLD Marketplace will serve as a hub of activity. In addition to more than 300 solution providers, attendees will find four dynamic stages featuring concise, high-impact sessions designed to fit into even the busiest schedules. These interactions underscore the power of coming together in one place.
Cultivating knowledge and talent is equally central to the RISKWORLD experience. This year, we are proud to welcome 20 undergraduate students as Anita Benedetti Scholarship recipients, continuing a tradition that has helped shape the next generation of risk professionals. The Spencer-RIMS Risk Management Challenge will once again showcase emerging talent from global risk management university programs. We look forward to announcing the 2026 champion at the Spencer Soirée on Monday evening.
RISKWORLD is designed for professionals at every stage of their careers. The launch of RIMS, The Foundation for Risk Management, represents an important step forward in strengthening our field, supporting innovation, advancing education, and investing in future leaders. Events such as The Rock the Foundation After Dark Party at NOTO Nightclub, frankly, the best party at RIMS, in my opinion, on Tuesday (along with a Silent Auction that will start April 24 and go through May 6) will directly contribute to these efforts.
Lastly, the safety of our RISKWORLD guests is our top priority. RIMS has implemented an array of safety and security measures to do our best to ensure this. For specific details, visit the Safety At RISKWORLD page.
I still remember attending my first RISKWORLD as an Anita Benedetti student scholarship recipient over 25 years ago. It opened my eyes to the world of possibilities within this profession. I walked away from the event feeling energized, eager, and inspired. Whether this is your first RISKWORLD or your 25th, I am confident you will walk away with the same sense of momentum and possibility. Engage with your fellow professionals.
I look forward to seeing you in Philadelphia.
Sincerely,
Manny Padilla
RIMS 2026 President