Investor relations is very much alive and kicking

We recently sponsored the IR Society’s Annual Conference for 2025, and one message came through loud and clear: investor relations is no longer just reactive. It’s a strategic, high-impact role at the heart of corporate decision making.

What stood out for us 

Chairman of Inchcape plc, Jerry Buhlmann, set the tone by declaring, “Disruption is now the norm.” Drawing on four decades of experience, he highlighted that the UK still has world-class infrastructure and entrepreneurial energy. With the right governance and reform, it can become a compelling alternative to the US, especially as confidence in the latter starts to waver.

He urged leaders to rethink IR through three strategic questions:

• What does disruption mean for our market?
• How does it affect our suppliers and clients?
• How should we behave strategically?

Buhlmann added, “We must now consider AI as both agent and audience. As algorithms increasingly shape what’s seen and how it’s judged, IR should consider on adapting its content and mindset accordingly.”

Buy-side perspectives

Fund managers from Premier Miton, Lombard Odier, Aberdeen and Schonfeld outlined what they want from UK-listed companies. The consensus? Valuations are low, opportunities are high, but the narrative isn’t landing. 

Across the panel, a consistent theme emerged: with allocations to UK equities at historic lows and US exceptionalism showing signs of stress, investors are increasingly open to rebalancing their exposure. 

In a practical closing round, panellists offered advice for investor relations professionals:

• Be financially fluent: “IRs must understand the numbers - not just recite them,” said one speaker. “It’s impressive when you know the impact of what you’re saying.”
• Tailor your outreach: Target investors who match your three-year strategy. Stop using the same broker lists year after year.
• Own the narrative: Control the sell side. Shape and manage the expectations.
• Bring honesty to the table: Buy side expect real conversations, especially in volatile or high-risk situations.
• Create forums for real dialogue: Speakers highlighted that, where possible, dinner with the board and direct contact build trust.

“We want a story. We’re all human. It’s about the simplicity of the story.” Emma Mogford, Fund Manager, Premier Miton

Our key takeaway:

• UK equities offer value, but it’s up to companies to own the story and spark investor re-engagement
• The scope of IR is evolving from just the reporting function to that of a strategic advisor; driving narrative, insight and boardroom influence.

The future of UK capital markets: investor relations implications

Speakers from Latham & Watkins, Kingfisher, Jefferies and Lazard shared macro-economic and capital market trends emphasising IR’s evolving role. UK fundamentals remain intact, but investor sentiment is weighed down by perception.

The Chief Economist and Strategist for Europe at Jefferies, Mohit Kumar, emphasised, “It’s about the story. Stories sell better than numbers. You really need a compelling story.”

The panel discussed how the dominance of passive investing is transforming how influence is exerted in boardrooms. Since 2000, $5.3 trillion has entered passive funds, which vote on resolutions and shape governance through proxy advisors. IR can’t afford to ignore this silent majority.

The panellists offered practical insights on how to navigate the capital market volatility:

• Tailor your investor engagement as if curating your ideal shareholder registry
• Deliver unique insights, such as market-specific trends or access to R&D.
• Keep the narrative clear, strategy-led and borderless.

Our key takeaway: Help shape perception – don’t let outdated headlines define your market.

In summary

Investor relations is changing fast, and leading with narrative, data and confidence is more vital than ever. The UK capital markets may be undervalued, but they’re not underpowered. The opportunity lies in how we tell the story; clearly, strategically and with conviction. Storytelling is more than a creative skill. It is a strategic advantage that will strengthen the emotional connection with your audience. 

If you’ve got questions, thoughts, or just fancy a chat about the conference – our inbox is always open!