Percona Board Appointments Spark Controversy: Tech Veterans Join Ranks of Elites
Percona, the global leader in enterprise-grade open source database software and services, has stirred up controversy by appointing two tech heavyweights, John Newton and Rob Young, to its board of directors. The move has raised eyebrows among industry insiders, who question the motivations behind these appointments and the potential impact on the company’s future direction.
John Newton: The Kingmaker
John Newton, co-founder of Alfresco and Documentum, brings over 40 years of experience in the enterprise software industry. His impressive track record includes successful exits with Alfresco and Documentum, as well as stints on the boards of several leading companies. Newton’s appointment has sparked concerns that he may be more interested in advancing his own interests than those of Percona.
Rob Young: The Open Source Maverick
Rob Young, a seasoned business and technology executive, has built a reputation as a pioneer in the open source software space. His extensive experience includes key roles at MySQL AB, MongoDB, Percona, RedHat, and DigitalOcean. Young’s appointment has raised questions about his potential conflicts of interest, particularly given his history with Percona.
Industry Insiders Speak Out
Industry experts have expressed concerns about the motivations behind these appointments, citing potential conflicts of interest and the potential for boardroom battles. "These appointments are a clear attempt to consolidate power and influence within the company," said a prominent industry analyst. "It’s unclear what value they will bring to the table, aside from their own self-interest."
CEO Schlemmer’s Statement Raises More Questions
Percona CEO Ann Schlemmer’s statement announcing the appointments has only added to the controversy. "We are honored to welcome John Newton and Rob Young to our board," she said. "Their extensive experience and deep understanding of the industry will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and deliver world-class solutions to our customers." Many have interpreted this statement as a veiled attempt to justify the appointments, rather than a genuine expression of enthusiasm.
The Future of Percona
As Percona navigates the challenges and opportunities ahead, the appointments of John Newton and Rob Young have sparked concerns about the company’s future direction. Will these heavyweights help steer the company towards success, or will their presence create a toxic boardroom environment? Only time will tell.
