Dear Stephen
CONFIDENTIAL
Thank 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 683111
External Email: Don’t click links or open attachments unless you trust the sender. Unsure? Please use the Report button. |
Dear Luke,
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 Thanks