An interview with David Shriver, Senior Advisor, Kekst CNC

31 Mar 2026
The Investor Relations Society
IR Society News
Ahead of The Investor Relations Society Annual Conference 2026, we sat down with one of our panellists, David Shriver, to find out a bit more about his thoughts on the upcoming event. David will be joining Plenary 3 - Driving Board-Level Influence as an IRO.

Tell us a bit about you and your role

As a senior advisor at Kekst CNC, a global strategic communications firm, I help the firm's clients think through the challenges around communications, reputation management, and stakeholder engagement. I have also served on a wide variety of boards, from listed companies to professional bodies to arts and culture organisations. I believe that boards make the best decisions when they understand how their stakeholders think. IROs should play a key role in making this happen.

Why do you think the theme of ‘IR as a Trusted Advisor’ is so important this year?

A true trusted advisor is worth their weight in gold. IROs have a unique opportunity to fulfil this role across a range of relationships, from the CEO to the board and beyond.

Are there any other sessions you are looking forward to joining?

The Investor Relations Society Annual Conference is always a great opportunity to hear from leaders in the profession and assess what best practice now means. I will be going to as many sessions as I possibly can.