As I come to the end of my term as President, it seems a sensible time to reflect on what has without doubt been a strange, challenging, upsetting and difficult time for a lot of people in a lot of ways. On a more positive note, it has also been a time of great innovation and change and a testimony to the human ability to adapt and survive and in a lot of cases thrive in the face of adversity. Whilst not wanting to over egg it, I think the CISI (and I include the local committee in that) has adapted very well and in particular upped it’s game in terms of the online offering including the new app (which if you haven’t used it, I would recommend you do as it’s excellent)
When my term started in February 2020, I didn’t anticipate a situation where we wouldn’t have any face to face committee meetings before I handed over to my successor, Rebecca Keating! We have been able to hold regular committee meetings virtually and at times which have been more convenient for all of us – they have also more efficient in terms of time taken but clearly we have all missed the ability to interact face to face. That has also been missing from our CPD events and it is unsure at this stage when we will return to in person meetings in the future. It is certainly something we are keen to gain feedback on in terms of what members prefer and also what topics people would like to hear about. Please do get in touch and let us know as we want it to be useful and relevant to you all.
I have enjoyed hosting a few virtual seminars and feel these have a ongoing part to play in delivering CPD sessions to members but personally wouldn’t want this to be the only way we do it. The social events we have held when we have been able have demonstrated people still like to meet in person and this is something as a committee we continue to discuss on a regular basis.
As I type, I am listening to the Presidents Day meeting with Simon Culhane talking about changes and what the future might look like. I certainly look forward to being an active member of the committee and helping Rebecca Keating as she takes over as President next month. I have no doubt she will be a great success and wish her the best of luck in the new role! I am sure she will look forward to updating you before too long…..
Charlie Thompson
CISI Yorkshire President