Nominee for Vice President 2007-2009

Frank March

I am putting myself forward for Vice President of InternetNZ in the current election in what is, oddly enough, a time of some uncertainty about the future of the organisation.

I have been a member of the Structural Review Tiger Team whose work has resulted in presentation of a report making recommendations for changes in the way our organisation operates.  I have become convinced of the need to move from the ‘club’ that InternetNZ has been to a more professional organisation, and it is that need that is the basis for the constitutional changes that are put forward for members to consider for this AGM.

InternetNZ has performed well over a considerable period and especially the past two years or so, to the point where it is now on the ‘fast dial’ list of any journalist looking for comment on a wide range of information technology issues, not just in direct relation to the Internet.  Our submissions have been well received by both the Government and Parliamentary select committees.  This success has been achieved with a high level of professionalism from our staff on the one hand and, on the other, the capability of members (drawn from present and previous Councils, and others) who have contributed to the various policy position papers and to the ongoing work programme InternetNZ undertakes either on its own, or in co-operation with other groups.

But this very success has highlighted a need for a close review of the structure of the organisation.   While increased professionalism is necessary and welcome, I am convinced that InternetNZ’s strength derives from its being a membership-based organisation.  Retaining a balance between these potentially conflicting issues will be a major focus for Council over the next year.  Although the term of office according to the constitution is two years, depending on how the proposed organisational changes are accepted by the members and implemented, I am prepared to step aside at the 2008 AGM in order to assist with bringing about those changes.

So that will be my priority over the next 12 months:  to work for change where it is needed, to safeguard the interests of members through that change process and, as far as I am able, to ensure that the excellent work of our organisation continues.

Relevant biographic details in brief

Currently Senior Specialist Advisor with the IT and Telecommunications Policy Group of the Ministry of Economic Development, work including NZ broadband, Digital Strategy and Internet governance.  Proudly a non-financial member (Fellow) of InternetNZ.  Chair .nz Oversight Committee. Past and present Councillor.