In June 2025, IPSA marked a huge milestone+
Twenty years of championing independent personal search agents. And we marked it properly.
The 20th Anniversary event brought together members, partners and friends from across the industry for a day that was equal parts informative, reflective and celebratory. From insightful sessions to emotional moments, laughter, dancing and our first-ever IPSA Awards, it was a reminder of just how far the organisation and the sector have come.
Industry insight, past and future
The day featured a packed programme of talks covering both current challenges and what lies ahead for the search industry.
We heard from Wendy Gibson and Silas J. Lees on material information and market change, Lorna Bown on PCCB compliance updates, and Jamie Winch with a forward look at HM Land Registry consultations. Practical. Relevant. Straight-talking.
Then came a deep dive into IPSA’s history.
Christian Lister delivered a brilliant “potted history” of IPSA that was engaging, enlightening and, at times, emotional. Dave Penney followed with a heartfelt personal journey through the highs and lows of the search world.
Many attendees commented on how much they learned about IPSA’s role in shaping the industry, and the battles fought in the early days around EIR and access to data. It was a powerful reminder of the foundations laid by Christian, Steve Davis, Dave Kaye and others that still benefit the sector today.
Celebrating the people behind the work
A real highlight of the event was the introduction of the first-ever IPSA Awards, recognising individuals who quietly and consistently make a difference.
Award winners included:
IPSA Unshakable Optimist Award – Jamie Winch, HM Land Registry
IPSA Years of Dedication Award – Valerie Bennett, Home Information Searches
IPSA Spirit Award – Ryan Hobson, Elan
IPSA Quiet Storm Award – Mahesh Kerai, Kerai Property Searches
IPSA Fashion Icon – Henry Crosby, Martello (no one wears a chunky knit quite like Henry)
It was long overdue recognition for people who give so much to the industry, often without fanfare.
Thank you to our sponsors
None of this would have been possible without the support of our sponsors, who stood firmly behind the independent sector and the people delivering searches week in, week out:
Groundsure
Landmark Information Group
Elan
Martello
Chimni
Their support helped make the entire day special, from a brilliant drinks reception and a fantastic BBQ to the launch of the IPSA Awards. We are proud to work alongside organisations who genuinely support the independent search community.
Independent by nature. United by purpose.
As the day turned into evening, we laughed, danced and celebrated together. A proper celebration of IPSA’s community and everything it represents.
Twenty years on, the message was clear.
IPSA is about people. About independence. About doing things properly.
And we’re not done yet.
Looking ahead
With the 20th Anniversary behind us, the next date is already in the diary:
Monday 19 January 2026 – IPSA Annual Conference
Save the date emails are out, and planning is well underway. Fresh insights, straight-talking sessions and another chance to bring the IPSA community together.
Thank you to everyone who made the 20th Anniversary so special.
Here’s to the next chapter.
