The 4th Annual Reputation Management and Corporate Communications Conference wraps up in London
On September 17, 2025, Global Insight Conferences hosted the 4th Annual Reputation Management and Corporate Communications Conference at the Royal Garden Hotel, London, UK. Senior communication leaders from across industries came together to share how organisations can navigate crises, build resilience and safeguard trust in an era of constant disruption.
The one-day event delivered a rare mix of strategic insight and practical advice. From the rise of AI to the realities of crisis preparedness, from the challenge of misinformation to the demand for authentic ESG communication, the agenda sparked lively discussion and provided actionable takeaways.
Key discussions
Artificial intelligence dominated much of the debate. Richard Tigges of AUDI AG demonstrated how predictive analytics and human–AI collaboration are already reshaping comms workflows. Delegates agreed the real question is no longer whether to adopt AI but how to integrate it responsibly, enhancing efficiency while protecting brand integrity.
Crisis preparedness was repeatedly described as a non-negotiable skillset. Speakers stressed that readiness cannot live in static manuals but must be embedded into teams through scenario planning, horizon scanning and live drills. Gift Sally of Womankind Worldwide highlighted how today’s geopolitical turbulence, from wars to economic shocks, puts comms at the centre of organisational strategy. Her call for proactive positioning, authentic relationships and evidence-led advocacy resonated across the room.
Image: Global Insight Conferences
Trust and purpose emerged as consistent anchors. Case studies from Pfizer and Royal Mail reinforced that purpose acts as a decision-making filter, while trust, even when eroded, can be rebuilt with transparency and consistency. ESG and sustainability comms echoed the same need for authenticity. Anita Adam reminded delegates that credibility is rooted in detail as much as narrative; even fundamentals such as water must be considered in net zero plans.
With false narratives travelling faster than facts, misinformation was identified as one of the toughest challenges facing reputation managers today. Léa Wertheimer of Swiss International Air Lines shared candid lessons from navigating disinformation, stressing that proactive, transparent and rapid communication is the only way to retain control of the narrative.
Reflections from the chairs and delegates
Chairs Simon Kutner (Prudential), Timothy Fassam (Phoenix), and Jack R steered the discussions, ensuring ESG, crisis, and trust remained central threads throughout the day. Kutner captured the spirit of the conference in his closing words: “In an era where reputation is currency, professionals need the tools to proactively manage risk, harness disruption, and build enduring resilience.”
Delegates echoed this sentiment afterwards, describing the event as “full of insight, challenge, and inspiration.” James Read praised the expertise from across sectors, inspiration from colleagues, and new perspectives on how we think about trust and reputation, while others noted the practical tools they could take back to their organisations immediately.
Image: Global Insight Conferences
Looking ahead
The 2025 edition made clear that reputation management is no longer just about communications strategy; it’s about building resilient, responsible organisations able to thrive under pressure. With AI transforming workflows, misinformation moving faster than fact, and geopolitics reshaping the operating environment, comms leaders are stepping into a more central, strategic role than ever before.
The conversation continues at Global Insight Conferences’ upcoming sister events, including the Pharma & Healthcare Comms & Reputation Conference and their flagship 10th annual Corporate Communications Conference London, which will further explore how organisations can safeguard reputation in today’s fast-moving world.