I’ve just become aware that Vanessa Stanford has recently left the employ of auDA.
She has been a long serving employee, and her most recent role was that of General Manager, Complaints.
It’s been quite apparent to keen auDA followers (such as myself) that she was not a “happy camper” in recent times. This was epitomised by her various social media posts which were highly critical of the auDA Board and management. Something had to snap; and it did.
Whilst many people “lived in fear” of Vanessa’s approach and manner, I found her to be reasonably helpful most of the time – despite her bluntness. And in a social situation, she was always good to have a laugh with.
I wish her well in the future.
Ned O’Meara – 2nd November 2016
Disclaimer
Something needs to change. An entity cannot sustain this kind of exodus without detriment.
On the contrary Nicole. I think that most of the changes that have occurred are actually a positive for the auDA.
Those of us that are a bit “long in the tooth” have often seen organisations stagnate from stale leadership. Some people (not all) get stuck in their way of doing things, and are just not susceptible to positive change.
And when that occurs, something must give.
To use a sporting analogy, it’s a bit like a footy team that has been forced to rebuild from scratch. New players; new culture. That’s painful for some – but it’s hope for those that have their eye on the future silverware. Imho.
I’m not sure that is a fair analogy. This is an organisation that is unique. Players can’t just be “replaced” with those who know how to play. My concern is more over the fact that organisations that have those “old in the tooth” leave often suffer for it because the knowledge and know how walk out the door with those people. I am not saying that is what is happening here. I’m simply saying it is a concern.
I think it is a case of the old guard not being willing to embrace new coaching staff and a different game plan.
As documented in my Trials and Tribulations blog article on this very website less than 8 weeks ago, I wasn’t a big fan of dealing with Vanessa from auDA. That being said, I wish her all the best in the future. I hope the new person who takes on her position can bring an added extra-personable approach.
A lot of comings and goings have been happening over at auDA this year, I’m excited to see what happens over the next year. For starters, it would be nice to be told what is happening with direct cctld .au registrations, don’t you think?!
The unneeded proposed direct .au extension has been cancelled. The new board is expected to make it official very soon. The new board can legally and in line with the relevant corporations law stop it and have it cancelled without any problems.
Many realised it was just a grab for more money from certain people. It has completely failed in many other countries such as .uk and .nz and this was not correctly researched before the last rush vote and Yes vote rigging which occurred by those with conflicts of interest and an eye on the money they could make from it not the damage it would do.
The Federal government has apparently told auDA in a sit down meeting last week they do not support the direct .au extra extension and has also warned auDA it is on notice to fix their many issues and focus back onto domain name management. this is why you may see some recent changes and more invitations for feedback and comments from domain name registrants.
@Sean
What a load of codswallop. I’ll publicly bet you $1000 that your statement above is incorrect.
Do you accept the bet?
Ned, before you get too excited and publicly lose your money take a deep breath.
Do you know if the proposed direct .au extension can be stopped?
Have you sought this information from auDA, present or past auDA board members or candidates?
Is the new auDA board able to cancel it’s introduction if they vote that way?
I have been told by an informed source I will not name this is the case. They informed me The Australian Federal Government met with auDA last week in Canberra and stated they are now against it’s implementation plus raised some concerns over numerous other issues at auDA.
Has any risks and information come to light which now has auDA a little more concerned?
Would be great for you to write some info if you have it. You have good contacts most do not have so please share what you now and if yes it is possible.
I see some people just giving up and thinking about implementation when the whole thing needs to be stopped and a lot more scrutiny done on how it got this this mess in the first place.
Are you for another .au extension or against it? Maybe find out the way it can be stopped and assist to write why to help some who do not know. I have heard some board members and candidates asking for votes do not even know themselves….I would think they should really do some research as part of their director responsibilties and auDA board ambitions.
@Sean – please don’t avoid my direct question and challenge.
I’ll publicly bet you $1000 that the statement you made is incorrect. This is what you said:
Do you want the bet or not?
@Robert – I think communications have definitely started to get better. Not perfect by any means as yet – but I’m hopeful.
As for direct registrations, I think more should be revealed on this soon. It will certainly be raised at the auDA AGM – and there is no ducking for cover there!