Premier Craig Cannonier will lead a strong Bermuda contingent travelling to Denver next month for the Risk & Insurance Managers Society’s annual conference.

Two of his Cabinet colleagues — Education and Economic Development Minister Grant Gibbons and Finance Minister Bob Richards — will also attend, as well as Jeremy Cox, CEO of financial regulator the Bermuda Monetary Authority.

The insurance industry is a key pillar of the island’s economy and the RIMS conference is one of the biggest industry events of the year, particularly for corporate insurance buyers.

The Bermuda booth, modelled on the Island’s distinctive architectural style, traditionally stands out in the conference hall. And the Bermuda Premier’s “walkabout” has become a Tuesday morning tradition at RIMS.

Attendance is expected to be close to 10,000 people and Bermuda will be one of around 400 exhibitors at the event which will run from April 27 to 30.

The Bermuda Business Development Agency (BDA), whose CEO David Cash will also attend the conference, said yesterday that Bermuda would host a private reception to encourage networking between local dignitaries and industry representatives.

Jazz and blues band Heritage, led by Bermudian Gianluca Gibbons, will lead the entertainment, and culinary specialities from the Island will be served.

Mr Cash said: “Collaboration for RIMS by the Bermuda Government, our regulator and industry professionals demonstrates our commitment to our clients and Bermuda. The insurance industry is vitally important to our economy and has the potential to grow further provided we continue to innovate and remain competitive. This requires Bermuda to be responsive to the needs of the market and to be visible at key events like RIMS.”