First IIRSM Ambassadors Network members agreed

In the run up to IIRSM’s 50th anniversary, IIRSM Ambassadors will actively support the work of the Institute, providing their expertise to help us achieve our strategic vision and mission.

Karen Hewitt, Founder of Leaderlike Ltd, will Chair the IIRSM Ambassadors Network. Peter Thomas, Strategic Growth Executive at Intuety and Founder of MySafetyConsultant.io, will support Karen as Deputy Chair.

The additional IIRSM Ambassadors are:

• Leo Dote, Hamad Medical Corporation

• Hugh Maxwell, Maxwell Safety Limited

• Loveness Marabwa, Zimbabwe Power Company

• Jonathan Gawthrop, EMCOR UK

• Frank Higgins, Safety Environmental Risk Enterprise

• Phillip Clarke, Care UK

• Joanne Price, MMP Business Solutions Limited

• Elaine Osborne, McLaughlin & Harvey

• Desma Kayando, Blockchain Africa

Hugh said: “As an experienced  professional with significant international engagement, being an IIRSM Ambassador means representing a community passionate about driving positive change in risk and safety. By sharing and championing best practices, inspiring others and promoting a culture of resilience and continuous learning, we aim to raise the profile of risk management and IIRSM influence to greater levels.”

Loveness said: "For me, being an IIRSM Ambassador means spreading the value of flexible risk management (opportunity-risk balance), inspired by my experiences in Zimbabwe's energy sector. I am honoured to collaborate with fellow risk enthusiasts, shaping the future of risk management and advancing excellence.”

Jonathan said: “I consider it a privilege to represent IIRSM as an Ambassador. It’s a fantastic opportunity to promote this excellent organisation, their progressive thought leadership and development programmes along with the many benefits of being part of the global institution, dedicated to the management of risk in all its forms.”

Frank said: “Joining the IIRSM Ambassador Network is a meaningful opportunity to support, mentor and promote a culture of excellence. With more than two decades of hands-on experience in HSE and risk management, I am passionate about empowering teams, fostering safe working environments and building strong connections that drive transformative change across industries. As an IIRSM Ambassador, I am dedicated to upholding and advancing our shared values to make a positive impact.”

Joanne said: “It is an honour to become a member of IIRSM's Ambassador Network.  The core values of IIRSM align with my own and I look forward to representing IIRSM over the next 12 months and having the opportunity to share the great work that they do with current and future members.”

Elaine said: “We are a diverse community of professionals, so we have massive collaboration opportunities to learn from and can influence the course of risk and safety management through communication and engagement. I’d love to feel that I have motivated and empowered others in recognising their impact in managing risks effectively, protecting their environments and advancing their careers.”

Desma said: "As an African professional, being included in this network makes me feel seen and deeply valued. It’s a chance to bring a bit of Africa to IIRSM, connecting more people to the vital work we’re doing and opening doors for greater visibility and membership across the continent. I’m looking forward to supporting our shared mission, fostering connections and advocating for health, safety and wellbeing as core values in our industry, workplaces and the entire community."

Karen said: “I am truly delighted to be working with IIRSM during its 50th anniversary to lead a new network of ambassadors who will elevate the critical role of risk management in organisations across the globe and to the benefit of the whole industry.”

Peter said: “I'm thrilled to support Karen and the new IIRSM Ambassadors Network, navigating the age of infinite leverage while celebrating 50 years of adapting to evolving workplaces and new technologies.”

The IIRSM Ambassadors will work under the direction of Chief Executive Phillip Pearson and the leadership team to help us deliver outreach and insight into specific topics/challenges. They will not direct the work of the organisation, the responsibility for which falls to the leadership team, Trustees and Council.

The Ambassadors Network is now at capacity but please keep an eye on the IIRSM Ambassadors Network page and our social media channels when we re-open applications.

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