We are the organisation for the professional body sector

The Professional Associations Research Network (PARN) is a not-for-profit membership organisation for professional bodies, offering expertise, experience and perspective on key issues in the sector through research, bespoke services, networking, events and training. PARN was set up in 1998 by Professor Andy Friedman. 

As the organisation for the professional body sector, we aim to:

  • Conduct research that determines and promotes best practice
  • Equip professional bodies to deal with common challenges
  • Raise the profile of issues related to the professional body sector
  • Promote professional bodies’ contributions to society
  • Support professional bodies with bespoke consultancy in areas such as strategy, governance and CPD

When you join PARN, your organisation gains unparalleled knowledge on the sector.

If your organisation is a professional body, you're eligible to join PARN as organisation members. universities, think tanks and similar organisations can also become associate members. Gain exclusive access to member-only resources and events, get discounted rates on all our products and services and more.

Click here to find out more!

Upcoming Events

Every year we hold two conferences on the latest PARN research and innovation across the professional body sector. You’ll find our new publication launches here, too.

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Training Courses

PARN training is tailored to the demands of the professional body sector. Find courses addressing today’s challenges, 100% relevant to you.

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Our Publications

We publish in-depth sector research to promote good practice among professional bodies. Plus, access free releases like our annual Sector Review.

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Latest Sector News

Click HERE to sign up for our weekly Sector News

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Call us today on 0117 929 4515 or Email us at
[email protected]

In the UK alone, our professional body members represent approximately six million professionals.
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