Everything you need to know about the CIPR Annual Conference 2026

Join fellow PR and communications professionals for a welcoming, thought-provoking and practical day at the CIPR Annual Conference 2026.

Taking place on Wednesday 18 November at 1 Basinghall Avenue, close to Moorgate and Liverpool Street stations in the City of London, this year’s theme is Organisational Resilience: Leading communications in a changing world.

The day examines the issues shaping the profession, from AI and disinformation to economic security, crisis communications, leadership and resilience.

Chaired by CIPR President Farzana Baduel, the conference brings together inspiring voices from communications, business, politics, behavioural science, economics and technology to help practitioners navigate today's uncertain world. With expert speakers, practical case studies and new perspectives, delegates will have plenty of opportunities to meet peers, exchange ideas and learn from one another.

Speakers and programme

The conference gets under way at 9am with registration and networking, followed by Farzana Baduel’s welcome. Renowned business expert Dr Alison Edgar – who was awarded an MBE for her outstanding contributions to entrepreneurship and business - opens the programme with a keynote speech exploring the mindset shift needed to build resilient organisations.

Next, the economist Dr Rebecca Harding will examine how geopolitical conflict, supply chain shocks, cyber threats, climate disruption, rising costs and technological change are reshaping economic security and business risk.

Behavioural scientist Professor Paul Dolan and former Conservative minister Steve Baker then take to the stage to explore conflict, division and disagreement, and consider how diverse viewpoints can help organisations grow stronger rather than become divided.

They’re followed by Amil Khan, co-founder and CEO of Valent, who will look at how communicators can respond to misinformation, disinformation and inaccurate AI-generated content.

After a buffet lunch, delegates can choose between breakout sessions – an opportunity to explore different perspectives and connect with fellow professionals. (Details of these sessions will be revealed soon.)

After reconvening, Louise Thompson Davies, global head of external communications at Jaguar Land Rover, will share lessons from managing communications through organisational challenges and reputational complexity.

Dwain Reid leads the final main-stage session with his Pace Framework, challenging organisations to distinguish between simply being busy and making meaningful progress. 

Farzana Baduel brings the day to a close with a summary at 5pm.

How to join the CIPR Annual Conference in person or online

• In-person delegates will have access to the full event, including networking and breakout sessions. A live-stream video option covers the main stage, with recordings available online for 30 days afterwards (subject to speaker permission).
• The Networking Buddy Scheme will help in-person attendees meet a small group, making it easier to start conversations and meet fellow professionals.
• CIPR members can log 10 CPD points for attending the conference virtually or in person.
• It’s a timely opportunity to think about the future of the profession and return to work with new ideas, practical insights and renewed confidence.

More information and how to book

• Tickets are available now to attend the CIPR Annual Conference in person or online, with special rates for CIPR members, students and volunteers. Book and find out more.