I am running for the PASS Board. You can read more about what I’ve posted and what others have to say here on this page.
Today I want to ask you a question. Should someone on the board be a manger or should they be a community person? Let’s avoid the easy answer of both for a moment, not because that’s the wrong answer, but because it’s the right one. Clearly you need a mix of these skills to be on the board. But, where you fall on my simplistic question could determine the kind of person you want to vote for on the board. Let’s discuss it a bit.
According to Wikipedia (deal with it), a board of directors is “meant to oversee the activities of a company or organization.” Well, my question is answered then, a manager is what’s needed. We’re done. Boy that was a stupid question Grant. But hang on a second. Let’s take a look at the mission statement of the PASS organization:
Empower data professionals who leverage Microsoft technologies to connect, share, and learn through networking, knowledge sharing, and peer-based learning.
Now what do you think? Do you just want some manager type, or maybe, just maybe, having a data professional directly involved in peer-based learning, for example, answering questions on SQL Server Central. A person heavily involved with knowledge sharing, maybe, running a blog and presenting webinars. As for networking, let’s talk at one of the live events where I’ll be presenting technical talks. In short, I think I’m well positioned to answer the PASS mission statement. I have team lead and project lead experience. I’ve also helped run volunteer organizations. But, what I really am is a community guy. My passion and my interests line up directly with the PASS mission statement. This is a large part of why I’m running for the board. I believe in what the organization does and I want to help it do more.
So, I’m pretty sure we need managers, but I really do think we need community people too. If you agree, please consider voting for me, Grant Fritchey, during the PASS Election between the 24th and the 29th of September. Keep on an eye on your inbox for your ballot and your chance to vote. For more information about the PASS election and information on the other candidates, go here.
I think that a community person is more valuable. As you stated, both skills are needed but situations mold people. Management ability is required to perform a lot of the duties, therefore, a person’s management skills will naturally evolve to meet the need. I would guess that it’s easier to stray from community than it would be to embrace the management duties. Therefore, a strong person in the community would fend off that tendency better.
Hey Grant,
First off I think you have a lot of great personal qualities to offer the board and your community focus is undoubtedly one of them. I would also say though that the mix of personalities is absolutely key to ensuring a healthy diverse mix of perspectives is also represented. Some more “manager” types is absolutely required – someone has to be the VP of Finance 🙂
Best of luck in the election.
Cheers, JRJ
Derik, I agree to a point. The thing is, management is a skill, so it’s needed to.
JRJ, my wife balances the check book, so I think we’ll keep me out of that position should I get anywhere near the board. Ha! Thanks for stopping by. I’m rooting for your win.
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