“The job of president is to do what you can to continue to grow RIMS as an organization and provide value to our members,” she said. “The biggest leap we made was a few years ago when the board made a decision to invest a few million dollars in our Web site”–www.RIMS.org–which, she noted, “paid itself back tenfold.”

Ms. Vinck said the annual conference continues to grow, noting that last year's attendance topped 10,000. “At a time when we hear from so many other associations that are losing members, RIMS is gaining members and continuing to gain strength.”

RIMS has also seen increasing interest in its Fellow designation, noting that professional development courses tied to the program are often sold out. About 150 people have received the “RF” designation.

A new concept–symposiums–also has been implemented. The first one, last year in London, was designed to teach risk managers about the London market. “They were able to tour Lloyd's and speak to underwriters and brokers,” she said. “They now understand why they need a London broker.” This year's symposium, tentatively set for November, will take place in Bermuda and will educate risk managers on the captive market.