The IRF's first-ever study focused solely on the European market explores trends in European attendee...
Representing a broad cross-section of the industry, members of IRF’s committees represent diverse perspectives, provide straightforward feedback, and demonstrate a willingness to dive in and do the work.
The Research Committee focuses on the core element that drives the IRF, research. The committee takes a multi-faceted approach to reviewing the main pillars of incentives by taking an in-depth review of various sources such as travel data, consumer trends, incentive metrics, survey results, and market analysis. The Research Committee provides impactful insights into topics and trends vital to all aspects of the non-cash incentive industry. This committee is for all those interested in helping shape the industry trends of tomorrow.
Chair: Rudy Garza, Co-Chair: David Gould
The IRF Content and Communications Committee works to increase the Foundation’s presence and awareness within the non-cash incentives industry as well as broaden the reach of IRF research and education to industry veterans, corporate users, and emerging users. The committee supports education opportunities, digital communications, webinars, and more, working to ensure IRF content is delivered in relevant, easy-to-consume forms. The committee forms sub-committees to work on individual communications initiatives including social media, website updates and improvements, promotion of upcoming events and educational opportunities, interacting with other committees to promote their initiatives.
Chair: Lynn Randall, Co-Chair: Clarence Day
The IRF Events Committee provides strategic direction in the development of IRF education events including The Annual Education Invitational and the Leadership Insights Forum to enhance the attendee experience, showcase the latest industry trends and IRF research, and drive event success. The Events Committee will drive the development of new event types as needed/identified. The committee meets monthly and works closely with the Incentive Research Foundation staff to ensure the successful development and execution of all in-person events..
Chair: Amy Rippelmeyer, Co-Chair: Nicky Baumohl
The IRF Sponsor Development Committee works to develop and facilitate opportunities for industry partners to provide funding and resources across IRF events, communication channels such as the website and podcasts, and research to support the IRF’s mission. The committee meets monthly to discuss the current and future sponsorship opportunities. Sub-committees may be formed to review and vet newly formed ideas prior to launch.
Chair: Karen Devine, Co-Chair: Joe Fijol
The goal of the Global Task Force is to direct the focus of IRF research, events, and content designed to serve the needs of the European incentives community.
The goal of the Non-Travel Task Force is to understand the needs of program owners and providers related to data, education, and networking among those that primarily engage in incentives that use non-travel rewards, such as gift cards, merchandise, and points.
Chair: Richelle Suver
The goal of the Next Generation Education Task Force is to roll out and socialize the Future of Incentives Workforce program, a joint initiative of IRF and SITE. This initiative promotes awareness of incentives as a business tool and a career path for the next generation.
What is the committee appointment process?
Committee Chairs will meet with the Volunteer Management Committee Chairs to evaluate the needs for the upcoming year. Chairs will determine the appropriate committee size to ensure everyone has a voice and opportunities to be engaged in sub-committees as appropriate. Based on what is needed, the committee size and make-up will be determined.
Volunteers will be asked to commit to a one-year term for the committee.
How does someone express interest in volunteering for a particular committee or committees?
A Committee Interest Form will be available year-round on the IRF website. Anyone interested in volunteering for the upcoming year is encouraged to complete this simple form. All applications must be submitted by November 17th, 2025, to be considered for 2026. Committee chairs will then look to this pool to fill their committees on an annual basis with communication on committee appointments happening in December of each year.
Can volunteers serve on more than one committee?
Volunteers will be appointed to committees in a manner that has them serving on one committee per term. This will allow them to be fully engaged in the committee they are appointed to while also allowing for more individuals to volunteer and be a part of the IRF.
How can I engage in IRF without being on a committee?
We appreciate all support within the industry, and there are many additional ways to stay involved with IRF, whether you are on or off a committee. Some of these examples involve sharing, liking and commenting on IRF content on social media, participating in IRF research studies, distributing IRF reports with clients and partners where appropriate or attending any of the multiple events offered throughout the year.
Click the button below to fill out the Committee Interest Form!
