Advancing Regulation Together
25 March 2026 · 1 Wimpole Street, London
Almost 300 regulatory professionals, policymakers, academics and sector leaders came together for the Institute of Regulation’s fourth Annual Conference. Under the theme Advancing Regulation Together, delegates shared how they are tackling common challenges, from building public trust to working with innovators and strengthening relationships across sectors.
“An excellent opportunity to meet like minded professionals and discuss relevant and pressing regulatory topics!”
“An engaging and well‑organised conference, offering insightful discussions and a strong range of topics relevant to regulators across multiple sectors and jurisdictions. It provided excellent networking opportunities and a valuable chance to gain insight into comparable regulatory organisations.”
Highlights from the day
Inspiring speakers and discussions
Hosted by Dr Pauline Stephen, the programme brought together leading voices from across the regulatory community.
Stephen Gibson, Chair of the Regulatory Policy Committee, opened the programme by asking whether regulation was losing its way.
Professor Dame Julia Black, Warden of Nuffield College, Oxford, explored power, credibility and trust as a new political battleground for regulators.
Lord Willetts, Chair of the Regulatory Innovation Office, discussed the Office’s role and how it works.
Paul Rees MBE, Chief Executive of the Nursing and Midwifery Council, shared insights into leading organisational change and rebuilding confidence.
A panel facilitated by Michael Hanton explored culture, leadership and professional pathways in regulation, with contributions from David Lunn of the Department for Business and Trade, Hugh Simpson of the Architects Registration Board, Vicky Kelly of CORU and Eva Heims of the University of York.
Four conference tracks gave delegates space to exchange experiences and explore practical approaches:
Culture & Leadership
Networks & Collaborations
Regulating for Impact
Effective Regulatory Relationships
The day concluded with reflections from Marcial Boo, Chair of the Institute of Regulation.
“An excellent well-thought out event. Thank you.”
“This conference definitely exceeded my expectations. I really enjoyed meeting and being able to network with the representatives of such a variety of regulators, and this opened my eyes as to the breadth and diversity of the sector.”
“The conference gave me the opportunity to network and gain direct feedback on my thoughts and insights from valued colleagues.”
Thank you to our volunteers
Our volunteers helped welcome delegates, support sessions and keep the day running smoothly. We are grateful for their time, enthusiasm and contribution to the conference.
“I was really grateful to be able to attend the conference as a volunteer. It opened my eyes to how other regulators work, compared to the regulator that I work for.”
2026 conference volunteer
Thank you to our speakers, chairs, Conference Advisory Panel and everyone who joined us and contributed to the discussions.
“The IoR event is a must attend conference for all those involved in regulations. It brings together key stakeholders and important topics and provides an opportunity for networking.”
Conference reflections and resources
2026 conference rapporteur report
Chris Carr, Policy and Regulation Specialist, reflects on the discussions shaping regulatory practice, including public trust, leadership, innovation and the importance of focusing on outcomes.
His report draws together insights from the plenaries and breakout sessions, providing an opportunity to revisit the day and continue the conversation.
Read Chris Carr’s 2026 conference reflections
Effective regulatory relationships
Hear reflections from panellists in TSO’s video on the challenges and opportunities of building stronger regulatory relationships, and how collaboration and shared understanding can support better outcomes.
Explore previous conferences
Our conference reports and videos capture ideas, experiences and discussions from across the regulatory community.
2025 conference rapporteur report
Shivani Chivukula reflects on the third Annual Conference, exploring how good regulation can protect citizens, support growth and build trust.
Read the 2025 rapporteur report
2025 conference videos
Watch regulators, speakers and industry experts share their thoughts and experiences from the 2025 Annual Conference.
Watch the 2025 conference videos
2024 conference rapporteur reflections
Explore perspectives from our 2024 rapporteurs on smarter regulation, artificial intelligence and learning from international approaches.