The Power of Presence: Why This Theme, Why Now

There is no shortage of information in this industry. Clients can get answers faster than ever. AI can summarize, analyze, automate, and draft. Data is everywhere. But when the stakes are high, that is not what people remember most.

They remember the advisor who brought clarity when things felt complicated. The professional who knew how to listen, ask the right questions, calm the noise, and guide them with confidence. In a business built on trust, relationships, and judgment, that kind of presence is not a nice extra. It is the edge.

That is the idea behind The Power of Presence, our theme for the 2026 PRMA Summit.

As we built this year's Summit, we kept coming back to one central truth: the human side of this business matters more, not less. Private risk management has always required technical expertise, but expertise alone is not what sets exceptional professionals apart. What truly makes a difference is how you show up for clients, colleagues, and partners. It is the ability to connect, advise, and lead with confidence in moments that matter.

Why Presence Matters More, Not Less

This year's theme is about that difference. In a time when AI and automation are reshaping the way we work, the most valuable professionals will not just be the ones with access to the best tools. They will be the ones who know how to pair those tools with judgment, empathy, communication, and trust. As more routine tasks become automated, the human touch becomes more important. Not less.

That idea will be reflected throughout the Summit, from the keynote stage to our educational sessions.

What You'll Experience at Summit

Our opening keynote speaker, Molly Bloom, will explore the concept of Affective Presence. Her session focuses on how we connect with others, how we make people feel, and how that shapes the impact we have. In a world full of noise, distraction, and disconnection, that message feels especially timely. The ability to engage people, build trust, and create real connection is not just a personal strength. It is a professional skill. And it is one that can be built.

That same thread will carry through this year's education. Alongside important industry knowledge and emerging issues, we are also leaning into the skills that help professionals truly differentiate themselves: communication, relationship-building, advisory presence, and the ability to guide clients through complexity with confidence. These are the skills that deepen trust. These are the skills clients remember. And these are the skills that matter even more as technology continues to change the landscape around us.

At its core, The Power of Presence is about recognizing what makes this profession so valuable in the first place. It is not just what we know. It is how we engage. How we advise. How we make people feel supported when the path ahead is unclear.

That is the kind of presence that builds stronger relationships, stronger businesses, and a stronger profession. And that is what we will be exploring together in Indianapolis.

Experience the 2026 PRMA Summit

Connect with the private risk community for three days of education, conversation, and experiences designed to strengthen how you lead, advise, and show up.

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Secure your seat in Indianapolis and experience The Power of Presence alongside professionals from across the private risk community.

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Meet the Speakers

Explore Molly Bloom and the full 2026 speaker lineup.

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