10 Oct Choosing the ASIS Europe 2026 content themes: A conversation with the Conference Co-Chairs

ASIS Europe is firmly established as a critical gathering for security leaders to discuss and debate their most pressing challenges. We sat down with the conference co-chairs — Inge Huijbrechts, Chief Sustainability and Security Officer at Radisson Hotel Group, and Lee Pokorski, Group Head Risk & Resilience at ArcelorMittal — to explore the thinking behind the key themes they highlighted in the 2026 Call for Content.

Q: The overall event theme is “From Risk to Resilience.” What does that mean in today’s context?

Inge Huijbrechts: It’s about recognising that risk is never static. Whether it’s geopolitical fragmentation, economic uncertainty, or the rapid adoption of AI, organisations are facing a dynamic threat landscape. Resilience is not just about bouncing back — it’s about adapting, anticipating, and embedding security into strategic decision-making.

Lee Pokorski: Exactly. We wanted the programme to reflect the evolving role of security leaders as integral partners in business operations. No longer seen as just gatekeepers but strategic partners driving value and resilience. The themes we’ve selected are intended to support and accelerate that transformation.

Q: AI features prominently in the call for content. Why is it such a priority?

Lee Pokorski: AI is transforming everything — from how companies operate to how risks are assessed. But with transformation comes complexity. We’re looking for sessions that cut through the hype and delve into the real strategic and operational implications for security teams. What does optimisation truly look like from an in-house perspective? How do we navigate compliance in this evolving landscape? These are the kinds of questions we’re ready to explore.

Inge Huijbrechts: And let’s not forget the human side. AI is reshaping the skillsets required in security. We’re keen to hear how organisations are adapting their recruitment, training, and team culture to stay on top of this.

Q: Another theme is the shifting international order. How does that impact corporate security?

Inge Huijbrechts: The fragmentation we’re seeing globally — politically, economically, even socially — has direct consequences for how organisations manage risk. Security teams need to be agile, resilient, and able to communicate their value clearly. The uncertain times are an opportunity to position security at the core of business strategy. We’re inviting speakers to share lessons learned from recent incidents and to reflect on how team culture and wellbeing are being maintained under pressure.

Lee Pokorski: It’s also about leadership. Security professionals are increasingly expected to contribute to enterprise risk management frameworks. That means understanding broader business priorities and aligning security strategies accordingly – now that is challenging enough during more stable times but in today’s volatile environment it is tougher than ever. That makes these peer-to-peer discussions and support networks so valuable.

Q: What kind of submissions are you hoping to receive?

Lee Pokorski: We’re looking for original, forward-thinking content. Case studies from in-house teams are especially valuable — they bring authenticity and vital, practical insight. But we also welcome new methodologies, emerging trends, and collaborative workshops that challenge conventional thinking.

Inge Huijbrechts: We want to stimulate dialogue and debate — there should always be at least 50% of the session time dedicated to live Q&A or discussion so we’re sure to encourage active participation and shared learning. The interactive workshops take that even further with collective problem-solving exercises. What matters most is that the content is relevant, engaging, and helps our audience navigate the complexity of today’s risk environment.

Q: Final thoughts for potential contributors?

Inge Huijbrechts: If you’re working on something that’s pushing boundaries or helping your organisation become more resilient, we want to hear from you. This is a chance to shape the conversation and connect with peers across Europe and beyond.

Lee Pokorski: Be bold – put the big questions out there. The security profession is evolving rapidly, and ASIS Europe is the place to share ideas, challenge assumptions, and build the future together.

The ASIS Europe 2026 Call for Content is open until Tuesday, 4 November – full details and access to the submissions platform at https://asiseurope.org/2026-call-for-content/