FERMA Forms Next Gen Risk Council for Young Leaders

The Federation of European Risk Management Associations (FERMA) has launched its Next Gen Risk Council, a new initiative designed to elevate young professionals and expand cross-border collaboration across Europe's risk management community.

The council, the first of its kind for FERMA, will comprise up to 15 risk or insurance managers under age 35 drawn from FERMA's member national associations, along with one liaison from the FERMA secretariat. Members will be selected based on criteria including age, professional experience, national association membership, and employer support. Each national association may nominate up to two candidates by March 10, 2026, with final appointments determined through applications and potential online interviews.

FERMA said the council aims to strengthen its role as a strategic hub for innovation and thought leadership by connecting young risk professionals across Europe. The initiative is intended to foster collaboration across borders, examine emerging risks from a European perspective, and amplify the voice of the next generation of risk leaders.

The council's work will center on a project theme titled "NextGen Future Thinking and Foresight." Members will collaborate on an in-depth project focused on foresight in risk management and contribute input to FERMA's education certification process, reflecting the perspective of professionals at the start of their careers. Activities will include regular online meetings, two in-person meetings annually, and presentation of project outcomes at the 2026 Forum in Rotterdam.

Philippe Cotelle, president of FERMA, said, "This new initiative sets out to give younger members of the Federation deeper insight into their profession and into FERMA's work. As well as exchanging knowledge gained in different sectors and geographical areas, members will discuss and envisage possible ways to improve the profession, culminating in presentations at the 2026 Forum in Rotterdam. A key aim is working collaboratively to nurture future talent, enhancing FERMA's offering to members and to the wider world of risk management."

FERMA said it will emphasize diversity across sectors and countries to ensure a broad range of perspectives within the council.