By Mackenzie Kelley, MHQ Executive Director
MHQ recently had the privilege of leading a dynamic strategic planning session for one of our clients, the American Risk and Insurance Association (ARIA). MHQ has worked with ARIA since early 2024, and this was the first time they undertook this process—one that we’ve crafted specifically to drive collaboration and develop a clear, actionable annual strategic plan.
The strategic planning process is designed to engage key stakeholders—specifically the Board of Directors—to help them think beyond operational successes and focus on long-term strategic growth.
ARIA Board Member Cassandra Cole shared her experience, stating, “I have participated in a number of strategic planning sessions, and this was definitely one of the most efficient and productive!”
MHQ’s process involves three main components:
- Board Member Survey: A brief survey of Board members to support the in-person session, gathering their insights on operations, opportunities, barriers, and future goals.
- 60-Minute Strategy Session: A focused, one-hour session—ideally in person—during which Board members come together to review the survey results, identify opportunities for growth, and determine one-year goals for the organization. These goals then evolve into 90-day goals that drive the annual plan.
- Annual Plan: Following the session, the MHQ team collaborates with board leaders to finalize an annual plan based on the strategy session results, with clearly defined goals for the year and upcoming quarter.
We held ARIA’s strategy session during the in-person Board Meeting in August at their World Congress international event. Board leaders defined priorities—based on the survey results—during breakout group discussions.
There was a sense of renewed energy following the strategy session. The discussions helped clarify priorities moving into 2026, with several new initiatives now under consideration that will contribute to ARIA’s continued growth.
ARIA’s annual conference, where the strategy session occurred, was the 2025 World Risk and Insurance Economics Congress in Calgary, Canada, held in early August. The World Congress brought together nearly 300 academics, industry leaders, and government professionals from 21 countries. Hosted once every five years, this year’s Congress was organized by ARIA in partnership with the Asia-Pacific Risk and Insurance Association (APRIA), the European Group of Risk and Insurance Economists (EGRIE), and the Geneva Association. The event featured informative educational sessions, a variety of networking opportunities, and several off-site activities.
