In light of Mark Easton's presentation and predictions for the UK and Europe, what does this mean for the future of professional bodies? A geo political interactive roundtable was led by a panel of some of the sector's most influential speakers and thought leaders…
The Memcom Conference 2024 witnessed a rich exchange of insights and perspectives during the keynote response session, where panellists Peter Cheese - CIPD, Kath Burton - Haysmacintyre, Sue Percy CBE - CIHT and John Boys - CIPD, engaged in a thoughtful discussion. Reflecting on Mark Easton's keynote, the panellists delved into the pivotal role of membership and professional bodies in influencing societal change and navigating the challenges of an evolving landscape.
The session commenced with an exploration of the scale and impact of the sector represented by professional bodies. Kath shed light on the vast community served by these bodies, citing statistics that underscored their substantial reach. With over 8.4 million individuals affiliated with professional bodies, the sector's influence rivals that of entire nations. Sue Percy further emphasised the sector's potential, highlighting its role in advocating for sustainable and equitable solutions within critical domains like transportation and highways.
John, drawing from his expertise in labour market economics, underscored the evolving nature of work and the increasing demand for higher skills. As the workforce becomes more specialised, membership organisations are poised to play a pivotal role in catering to diverse needs and driving professional development.
Amidst discussions on growth strategies and relevance, the panellists addressed the challenges of maintaining community engagement and adapting to changing member preferences. They highlighted the importance of understanding the evolving needs of members, leveraging technology for innovative learning solutions, and fostering a sense of community that transcends transactional interactions.
The conversation also touched upon governance structures within membership bodies, acknowledging the need for streamlining processes and fostering continuity amidst leadership transitions. Kath emphasised the importance of governance reform, citing examples of organisational complexity that hinder agility and strategic decision-making.
The panellists explored the evolving landscape of hybrid events and the balance between face-to-face interactions and virtual engagement. While recognising the value of both modalities, they emphasised the need for strategic planning to deliver optimal learning outcomes and networking opportunities tailored to diverse member preferences.
In conclusion, the session provided valuable insights into the evolving role of membership and professional bodies in driving societal change and fostering community engagement. As the sector continues to navigate challenges and opportunities, strategic collaboration and innovation will be essential in shaping a resilient and impactful future.
