Next Gen Working Group launches to support future industry talent

March 24, 2026

Running Industry Alliance (RIA) and Triathlon Industry Alliance (TIA) have officially launched their Next Gen Working Group, a dedicated initiative designed to support, develop and connect the next generation of talent across the running and triathlon industry.

March 24, 2026 /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – Running Industry Alliance (RIA) and Triathlon Industry Alliance (TIA) have officially launched their Next Gen Working Group, a dedicated initiative designed to support, develop and connect the next generation of talent across the running and triathlon industry.

Introduced as part of RIA’s 2026 Working Group structure which was first unveiled at The Running Conference presented by haku (TRC25), Next Gen Working Group represents a key step in turning industry insight into action – creating clearer pathways for emerging professionals and future leaders.

Building the future of the industry

Delivered in collaboration with Triathlon Industry Alliance (TIA), Next Gen Working Group has been created to:

• Support and develop emerging industry talent within the RIA and TIA membership base
• Improve access, education and career pathways for early-career professionals
• Encourage innovation and fresh thinking across the running and triathlon sectors

The group brings together RIA and TIA Members from across all sectors, creating a collaborative, cross-industry platform where ideas can be shared, skills developed, and future leaders supported – ensuring new voices are heard and valued.

Industry voices

Rebecca (Becs) Richardson, CEO, Running Industry Alliance (RIA), said: “The launch of the Next Gen Working Group is a really important step for us as an industry. To continue evolving, innovating, and staying relevant, we must actively support and invest in the next generation. This isn’t just about future talent – it’s about creating opportunity, opening doors, and giving a platform to new voices, new thinking and new leadership. That’s how we move the industry forward, together.”

Will Cowell, RIA Advisory Board Next Gen Champion, said: “There’s a huge amount of talent entering the industry, but not always a clear pathway or support network around them. Next Gen Working Group is about changing that – bringing people together, creating connections and ensuring the next generation feel supported, heard and empowered. It’s an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of our industry from the ground up.”

Hollie Light, RIA Next Gen Lead, said: “This Working Group is about creating a connected community of emerging talent. It’s about creating a space where early-career professionals can connect, learn and grow – while also contributing their ideas and perspectives back into the industry. Supported by RIA, TIA, Becs, Will, myself and the wider Working Group, we want to build something that feels inclusive, supportive and genuinely valuable – not just now, but long-term for the future of the running and triathlon industries.”

Founding Next Gen Working Group Members

The Next Gen Working Group is made up of a diverse mix of professionals from across the running and triathlon industry, all RIA and/or TIA members. The Group Members represent a wide range of sectors, experiences and perspectives and include:

• Will Cowell / Brandwave (RIA Advisory Board Champion)
• Hollie Light, RaceNation / SportsGiving (Lead)
• Matt Trevett, njuko
• Ella Hamilton, THE·TEAM
• Jack Schofield, Two26 Photography
• Sadie Quinn, Destination Sport Experiences
• Tristan Zoetmulder, Krono:Sports
• Elysia Sanders, Ultra Challenge
• Kieren Holmes, Scimitar
• Emma Cole, Climategames

Find out more

To learn more about the Next Gen Working Group, its purpose, and full member list, visit: www.runningindustryalliance.com/about/next-gen-working-group/

From conversation to action

RIA Working Groups are designed to be member-led, solution-focused and action-oriented, ensuring that ideas discussed within the community translate into meaningful progress across the industry.

Next Gen Working Group plays a vital role within this structure – focusing on the future workforce, talent development, and ensuring the industry remains innovative, inclusive and sustainable for years to come.

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