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Chairman’s introduction
In this issue I would like to talk to you about the current focus of LIXI, where LIXI is heading, and where we are today with our key goals. But before I do, I would like to take the time to talk about our current CEO Socrates Vasiliadis.
Socrates is moving on from LIXI next month and we are now in the process of finding a new CEO. Socrates was LIXI’s first formal CEO, and albeit a part time role, he has been there during an important time in our evolution. His passion for the cause and his commitment to LIXI has been second to none. I think most readers of this newsletter would attest to that and have probably been involved with Socrates at some point or other over the past couple of years.
Socrates leaves the role on a proud and positive note and I know that I am talking on behalf of the Board when I say thank you to Socrates for his effort and commitment in the time he has been our CEO.
Just as when we first started with a part time CEO, LIXI is now at another point in its evolution - the Board recognises the LIXI business model of the future requires a full time focus to deliver on member’s expectations, face the future challenges while moving to a more proactive business model. This is why LIXI is now recruiting for a full time CEO.
Out of last year’s annual forum the Board took away some key messages and crafted these into 4 key areas of focus for 2007/08. Below is a brief update on each of these:
- White paper on the business case for standards. Assist the membership to articulate the business value of implementing standards into the lending processes. We are currently working with BrandManagement to deliver on this commitment and we expect to be able to share with you the outcome of that paper at our annual forum on the 10th September (a date for your diary).
- The Valuation standard – get traction for the standard was our 2008 focus here. A review panel of key stakeholders to the valuation process was convened and tasked with identifying the issues/ challenges associated with implementation of this standard. Their work has largely been completed and the outcomes are being tabled at the next LIXI Board meeting for discussion and decisions.
- Put some methodology and disciplines into our standards delivery framework. The volunteer model has always been challenging for us and we recognised the need to create a more disciplined and transparent approach to delivering on standards. Chairmont Consulting is working with us to ensure that future standards are developed with rigour and discipline including a full appreciation of the business case for developing the standard in the first place.
- On the final focus, our website. Re-vamp the site to more accurately meet member’s needs. We have the requirements for this documented and are in the process of finding the most appropriate organisation to help us deliver on this commitment.
Getting these basic building blocks into place we feel are important before we embark on developing further standards for the industry. That said, there has been plenty of work happening in 07/08 around standards: Products, Commissions, NECs (National Electronic Conveyancing), NICTA (visible loans project) to mention a few.
Our evening series events are an excellent way for you to keep abreast of what’s happening at LIXI. The latest one was held this month in Melbourne and there is more about that later in the newsletter.
As always, we welcome member feedback and communication. If you have any questions or feedback please don’t hesitate to get in contact with us.
John Hearne
LIXI Chairman
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