RIMS Honors Jeff Bray, Emily Buckley

Why It Matters

The awards highlight how top‑tier risk leaders are becoming essential architects of value creation, signaling heightened strategic importance of risk management across logistics and consumer‑goods sectors.

Key Takeaways

• Jeff Bray leads global risk for Prologis, a $100B logistics REIT.
• Emily Buckley became Specialized's first dedicated risk manager in 2022.
• RIMS awards will be presented at May 5 Riskworld conference.
• Honors underscore risk management's role in driving innovation and strategy.

Pulse Analysis

The Risk & Insurance Management Society (RIMS) uses its annual Riskworld conference to spotlight individuals who have reshaped risk functions into strategic assets. Jeff Bray’s elevation to Risk Manager of the Year reflects his stewardship of Prologis’ global risk program—a portfolio that spans more than $100 billion in logistics real estate. Under his guidance, the company has integrated risk analytics into site acquisition, supply‑chain resilience, and ESG initiatives, turning potential disruptions into competitive advantages.

Emily Buckley’s induction onto the Honor Roll underscores a growing trend: mid‑size manufacturers are appointing dedicated risk officers to safeguard brand reputation and operational continuity. Since joining Specialized Bicycle Components in 2022, Buckley has built a risk framework that addresses product liability, supply‑chain volatility, and cyber threats. Her prior experience at Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, where she oversaw risk for a multi‑venue sports empire, equips her to navigate the complex regulatory landscape of consumer goods, reinforcing the importance of specialized risk expertise in niche markets.

Together, these recognitions illustrate a broader industry shift. Risk management is no longer a cost center; it is a driver of innovation, strategic planning, and shareholder value. As investors demand greater transparency on risk exposure, firms that embed risk thinking at the executive level—like Prologis and Specialized—are better positioned to capture growth opportunities while mitigating downside. RIMS’ spotlight on such leaders reinforces the message that proactive risk leadership is a decisive factor in today’s volatile business environment.