While I’m sure a more traditional way to celebrate the New Year would be by committing to doing more exercise or similar, in my case it’s a time for a small announcement.
As of January 1st 2017 I am “Chair Elect” of the Internet Infrastructure Coalition.
What does that mean?
I’ll be the Chair from January 2018. For the duration of 2017 I’ll be working closely with the current Chair David Snead to ensure a smooth transition.
Who the hell are the Internet Infrastructure Coalition?
The Internet Infrastructure Coalition, also known as i2Coalition, is an industry trade association that represents the internet infrastructure companies. Companies such as ourselves provide the “nuts and bolts” of the internet, its plumbing as it were.
Why does the i2Coalition matter?
Have you seen what governments and others are trying to do to the internet? The internet industry is still quite young, but it is capable of self-regulation. Top down government regulation will often be too heavy handed and slow or block innovation. Organisations like i2Coalition can work with government agencies and our public representatives to help inform better technology policies and ensure that politicians aren’t just relying on vacuous buzzwords.
Here’s the official release:
The Internet Infrastructure Coalition (i2Coalition) announced that Blacknight CEO, Michele Neylon has been appointed Chair Elect of its Board of Directors. Mr. Neylon’s position as Chair Elect became effective on January 1st, 2017 and will assume his role as Chair on January 1st, 2018. Until that time, Mr. Neylon will work with the current Board Chair David Snead.
Michele Neylon is an accomplished and outspoken advocate of the Internet infrastructure industry. Mr. Neylon participates in the ICANN GNSO Council, Content Advisory Board of WorldHostingDays, the usTLD Stakeholder Council of Neustar, Inc., the Policy Advisory Committee of .ie Domain Registry, and the Advisory Board Member of HostingCon. He is an award winning social media evangelist and blogger, speaker of four languages, and a passionate philanthropist. Founded in 2002 by Michele Neylon, Blacknight quickly became Ireland’s largest hosting and domain provider, as well as an ICANN accredited registrar. Blacknight joined the i2Coalition in 2013.
“I’m pleased for the opportunity to work with Michele in 2017 to ensure that i2Coalition’s important voice continues to flourish.” said Snead. “Michele has been a strong leader, speaking up for this industry to protect it and help it grow. Through i2Coalition, I’m confident that he can help inspire others and grow the impressive voice that we have all built.”
“Now more than ever it’s vital that the internet industry has a strong voice in protecting both our interests and those of our clients.” said Neylon. “I am honoured to have been selected to lead the industry association that speaks for companies of all sizes on both sides of the Atlantic.”
David Snead and Michele Neylon are both currently attending CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in Las Vegas. Existing and potential members are invited to reach out to i2Coalition to set up meetings with Mr. Snead or Mr. Neylon while attending CES.