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Comment: "Governance gatherings are pivotal to professional growth"

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In a world where governance is no longer a back-office function but an essential strategic enabler, the Chartered Governance Institute Scotland Conference 2025 comes at a pivotal moment. On 12 November 2025, Pinsent Masons’ Edinburgh office will open its doors to governance professionals, company secretaries, and business leaders from across Scotland and beyond for a day of insight, innovation, and connection.

Every time governance professionals come together, we move the profession forward

Good governance is the cornerstone of resilient, ethical, and high-performing organisations. It’s what enables boards to make informed decisions, ensures accountability, and builds trust with stakeholders. But good governance doesn’t operate in a vacuum, especially against the backdrop of regulatory divergence and rapid technological advancements. In fact, it’s more important than ever that the governance community gathers to discuss the pressing risks of today, as well as those on the horizon, as companies seek to mitigate these challenges and capitalise on any opportunities uncovered by the rapidly shifting world they’re operating in.

This year’s conference is designed to reflect just that. With a programme that goes beyond the headlines, we’ll explore the most pressing issues shaping governance today, from the growing threat of cybercrime and the evolving role of AI in the boardroom, to regulatory reform and the art of working effectively with boards.

A gathering of minds and missions

Co-chaired by myself and Walter Clark, both Fellows of CGIUKI, the conference stands as a testament to our shared commitment to governance excellence. Over the years, these gatherings have been pivotal to my professional growth, providing a valuable forum to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and forge lasting relationships. Networking with fellow professionals has offered fresh perspectives and practical solutions to challenges in my work, while the diverse topics and expert speakers have kept me up to date with the latest developments. This year, we’re delighted to welcome senior voices from across the governance landscape, including representatives from Companies House, the Financial Reporting Council, and leading private sector organisations.

Community and collaboration at the core

What makes this conference truly special is the spirit of community. It’s a space where in-house Co Sec teams, governance professionals, and legal advisers come together; not just to learn, but to share, connect, and collaborate. Whether it’s over breakfast, during breakout sessions, or at the closing drinks reception, the opportunities to build relationships and exchange ideas are as valuable as the content itself. It’s through these connections that the governance community can gather vital cross-sector intelligence to ensure governance functions across the country are primed to anticipate threats, rather than simply reacting as they arise.

As we prepare to welcome delegates to our Edinburgh office, I’m reminded of the power of convening. When we bring people together - across sectors, roles, and regions, we create the conditions for the compelling conversations that drive innovation, resilience, and progress.

Join us

The Chartered Governance Institute Scotland Conference 2025 is more than a date in the diary. It’s a statement that governance is evolving, that collaboration is essential, and that Scotland continues to lead the way in shaping the future of our profession.

Register here to attend the conference.

Gary Gray FCG is Legal Director – Head of UK Governance and Company Secretarial Services at Pinsent Masons LLP