Typhaine Beaupérin, the chief executive officer and secretary general of The Federation of European Risk Management Associations (FERMA), is set to step down in June 2025 after nearly ten years in the role. Her departure marks a significant moment in the risk management sector, which has undergone considerable changes during her tenure.
Reflecting on her time at FERMA, Beaupérin noted the growing complexity and unpredictability in the business world. She highlighted how events like the pandemic have transformed the landscape of risk management. “We’ve seen an elevation of the risk management profession,” she remarked, emphasizing the importance of adapting to these changes.
Beaupérin believes that organizations must continuously improve their risk strategies to keep pace with the evolving environment. She stated, “The era of simply maintaining a risk register is firmly behind us.” In her view, all sectors need to assess their risk environments more thoroughly and take a proactive approach to manage emerging threats.
Collaboration is key, according to Beaupérin. She stressed the need for cross-functional teamwork to break down silos within organizations. This holistic view of risk is essential for making informed decisions at the highest levels. She also pointed out that businesses should look beyond short-term forecasting cycles and consider longer timeframes to address emerging risks like climate change and digitalization.
Additionally, Beaupérin highlighted the evolving role of brokers in risk management. She urged brokers to act as risk advisors, helping organizations develop strategies to manage risks effectively. While their role as intermediaries remains crucial, she believes they should also champion the efforts of risk managers to enhance organizational resilience.
As the risk landscape becomes more interconnected, Beaupérin emphasized that risk managers must be involved in strategic decision-making. They should understand the business model and align risk strategies with the organization’s goals. By doing so, they can turn risks into opportunities for growth and innovation.
Looking ahead, Beaupérin sees technology playing an increasingly important role in risk management. Advanced tools can help risk managers analyze data and make quicker, more informed decisions. However, she cautioned that technology also brings new risks, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity. This highlights the need for collaboration between risk managers and IT departments.
As she prepares to step down, Beaupérin’s insights on the future of risk management will likely influence the sector for years to come. Her leadership has helped elevate the profession, and her thoughts on collaboration, strategy, and technology will resonate as organizations navigate the challenges ahead.