Hi,
@ John - thanks for your feedback and support, in what must be challenging circumstances.
@ Stephen, for some reason I didn't receive your feedback below but would agree that a call with Luke ought to be a matter or urgency, so that we have a clear understanding and of needs be a holding position until the formal communication is made.
Is that something you want to do as a one to one, or as you intimated on the call on Thursday afternoon, to have a sub group of the ESB join a call - which has the benefit that whilst you are speaking others are able to listen and form a position from a more observational stance.
Happy to support you in that regard, if you want another pair of ESB "ears" on such a call.
I hope that is helpful, have a great weekend.
Kind regards
Richard
Yes, I agree.
The ESB and the membership have a right to understand the plans going forward. As I mentioned, I am outside the details/ongoing discussions and could only speak to the intent (as per my statement).
For the avoidance of doubt, I agreed with the TechWorks CEO (Charlie) that I would notify the ESB and we should respond as necessary. I outlined what was to be said and also stated that it was likely that reassurances would be needed as a result given the sudden nature of the situation. This is now the reality (I.e. as was likely and discussed).
Sent from Outlook for iOS
From: Stephen Pattison <stephen.d.pattison@icloud.com>
Sent: Friday, January 30, 2026 6:28:23 PM
To: esb@iotsfmm.org <esb@iotsfmm.org>; John Moor <john.moor@techworks.org.uk>
Subject: Fwd: Techworks/IOTSF - IN CONFIDENCEThe reply from Luke. I think I should talk to him and suggest he talks also to ESB.What do you think?
Stephen
Begin forwarded message:
From: "Luke Ibbetson, Vodafone" <luke.ibbetson@vodafone.com>
Subject: RE: Techworks/IOTSF - IN CONFIDENCE
Date: 30 January 2026 at 12:05:32 GMT
To: Stephen Pattison <stephen.d.pattison@icloud.com>
Dear StephenCONFIDENTIALThank you for your note, I’m glad you contacted me.I’d like to put your mind at rest regarding TechWorks continued commitment to IOTSF and to serving its membership in the best possible way. It would not be appropriate for me to discuss the circumstances around John’s exit from the organisation, but I regret the unfortunate way this has been messaged to the IOTSF Steering Board.I can reassure you that TechWorks is financially stable and being actively managed to remain so. In common with all other trade associations, we are operating in a challenging economic environment and need to remain sharp, competitive, and fully engaged with the different communities which form our foundation. After reflecting on events and developments over the past year, I am making some leadership changes designed to improve efficiency of the organisation. I’d be more than happy to take you through once complete. As Executive Chair of TechWorks (and company director), I am taking personal accountability for management and support of the leadership team as we make these changes, which will strengthen the company’s ability to execute its mission and deliver meaningful value to our entire membership.I fully agree with the need for well structured, well thought through comms regarding John’s departure. This is being addressed as a matter of urgency. In the meantime, I’d personally appreciate your support in handling this matter with discretion – I recognise the unnecessary damage it may cause if handled poorly. John has been an outstanding asset to the organisation over many years and commands tremendous respect.I’d be very happy to discuss further if you’d like to have a call next week.Kind regards,Luke+44 7775 683111From: Stephen Pattison <stephen.d.pattison@icloud.com>
Sent: 29 January 2026 16:06
To: Luke Ibbetson, Vodafone <luke.ibbetson@vodafone.com>
Subject: Techworks/IOTSF
I am writing on behalf of the members of the IOTSF Steering Board about recent developments at Techworks and how they impact the work of IOTSF.
At our meeting on 28 January, John Moor announced he would be leaving IOTSF and Techworks in order primarily to relieve the sudden financial pressures on Techworks. All of the Board Members were shocked and disappointed. John’s role in IOTSF has been crucial to its success for many years.
A number of questions arise:
- How has this disastrous situation come about? Why wasn’t the financial position of Techworks monitored by the Board more closely and more competently?
- The decision to release John casts doubt on the Techwork Board’s commitment to IOTSF and its work going forward. How can IOTSF members be assured of Techworks’s continued support of it? And of much better financial management in the future?
In our discussion members stressed the unique value IOTSF provides as a forum for bringing together industrial, commercial, academic, regulatory and policy viewpoints. We strongly believe there is a demand for an organisation like this, whether as part of Techworks or not.
Apart from the fundamental questions above, the Board is worried about the public handling of John’s departure and its significance. There is a risk that members may leave the organisation if this is not done carefully. We need as a minimum a well thought out comms strategy.
The Board would welcome a session with you in the next couple of weeks to hear your views on these issues and discuss them with you.
Many ThanksStephenStephen PattisonChair IOTSF ESB
C2 General
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