ASCA appoints first full-time CEO
The Australian Smart Communities Association (ASCA) today announced the appointment of its first full-time CEO. Laurie Patton takes on this role following an extensive career in media, IT and event management. For the past three years he has been CEO / Executive Director of Internet Australia, the NFP peak body representing the interests of Internet users.
Welcoming Mr Patton, ASCA Vice President Brook Dixon (and Chair of the ASCA Nominations Committee) said the ASCA board was keen to see the organisation increase its contribution to the promotion of smart community concepts across Australia and was committed to working with a wide range of stakeholders.
“Australia is well placed to be one of the leaders in emerging global moves to make our communities more liveable, more sustainable and more technologically empowered. We recognise the importance of putting people first – viewing things from a local perspective while also drawing on international experience,” Mr Dixon said.
“Our board and members hold significant roles in organisations committed to creating smart communities. We are keen to lead the conversation about how best to develop all our communities for the benefit of every Australian.
“Smart community interest and action is accelerating across Australia, with great leadership from the Australian Government, through the Prime Minister and Assistant Minister for Cities and Digital Transformation, Angus Taylor MP,” Mr Dixon said.
“ASCA has been working closely with the Australian Government to drive positive smart community outcomes, and we look forward to building this partnership into the future.”
Mr Patton’s immediate priority will be to engage broadly with communities, governments and businesses to ensure ASCA fulfils a central role in stimulating debate and actions designed to help our communities take full advance of the many exciting opportunities opening up in the 21st Century.
“There’s never been a more important time for ASCA to make a contribution to the development of smart communities throughout Australia,” Mr Patton said.
“We are fast entering a digitally-enabled world full of new avenues for improving people’s lives by enhancing the places where they live and work.
“While many communities are now poised and ready to proceed, and some already on the journey, there’s clearly a need for a coordinated effort across the country that sees us collaborating and sharing our experiences as we experiment and learn. I’m looking forward to working with the ASCA board and members to ensure we make a major contribution to that effort,” Mr Patton said.
Taken from Australian Smart Communities Association Media Release 12 October 2017
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