The first component of this membership is a series of peer research reports. These reports are based on interviews with IR executives from other top corporations, focusing on how they manage their functions and fulfill their responsibilities. Each report features numerous charts, graphs, and other key metrics. The reports focus on major topics of particular importance to a senior-level IR executive. They would include: targeting investors, incorporating new technology such as AI, managing crisis communications, top IR performance benchmarks and metrics, reporting to the Board, guidance and earnings; and more. In addition, reports would include sample uses of artificial intelligence, policy statements, internal correspondence, sample strategy documents, and IR job descriptions. These and other tools provide best practices and save IR executives the time of creating them on their own.

Most meetings are held in person to facilitate meaningful peer interaction and networking. These gatherings bring together IR executives from top U.S. and global firms, offering a valuable opportunity to exchange insights on what works—and what doesn’t—in their roles. Each meeting includes a presentation of findings from a recent research report, followed by group discussion. The format also allows time for introductions, informal networking, and collaborative input on topics for future reports and meetings. The insights and materials from these meetings are intended to be shared with senior leaders at participating firms—especially CEOs, CFOs, and their teams—as a resource to support strategic and operational decision-making.

IR executives who miss a meeting have the opportunity to request a personal staff briefing by a member of the IR forum staff. That would include a review of the research presentation and of the discussion at the meeting. In addition, the IR executive could request a briefing for his or her staff or for the CEO/CFO.