How to Make Associations Work Effectively?

Running an association successfully requires balancing member needs, sector demands, and strategic priorities—all while navigating the challenges that come with leadership. This interactive roundtable invites association leaders, aspiring founders, and sector professionals to explore what really makes associations effective—drawing on real-world experience and practical insights.

Led by Russell Hamblin-Boone, a seasoned association leader, we’ll discuss strategies for meeting member expectations, managing stakeholders, and ensuring long-term impact. This session is participatory, with space for peer discussion, your questions, and practical advice you can apply in your own association.

Discussion Themes:

Meeting Member Needs
Understand how to identify and deliver the services, support, and value your members expect.

Stakeholder Management
Learn practical approaches to balancing the interests of regulators, industry partners, and internal teams.

Strategy in Action
Explore what works—and what doesn’t—when implementing association strategies, from finance and advocacy to innovation and governance.

Interactive Q&A
Bring your questions, challenges, and experiences. Russell will provide insights to help you apply these lessons in your own context.

What You’ll Take Away:

You’ll leave with actionable ideas for running an effective association, practical strategies for common pitfalls, and inspiration from someone who has led multiple associations to success.

Featured Guest:

Russell Hamblin-Boone has extensive experience in the membership sector, having led several trade associations from the ground up. He shares firsthand insights into member engagement, sector collaboration, and association management, drawing on decades of leadership experience.