The Virtual Stamp Club has learned that Renee Gardner is no longer head of the Internet Sales Unit of the American Philatelic Society. She is the fourth staffer to leave the APS since the beginning of the year, each apparently for different reasons and not connected.
Others were editorial assistant Bonnie Farmer; Shows & Exhibitions Director Dana Guyer, who is now executive director of the American Stamp Dealers Association; and Education Director Gretchen Moody, whose husband has taken a job in another part of the country.
In addition, the APS has been searching for a new executive director, with current E.D. Ken Martin moving to a different position.
APS has the leadership of Ken Martin, a supportive base, and a strong future. NY2016 just fired its 3rd Executive Director and does not have the support of many in doing so. How can you produce an international show without leadership? “Buyer beware”
While I only recently applied for APS membership, it seems that despite the current spat of staff turnover, it is unlikely that an organization with > 32,000 members is sliding into oblivion.
However, whether that organization is in a financial position to pay for adequately skilled progressive business leadership is a reasonable question. I do not impugn the current or past leadership of the APS. I know nothing of the Society’s history, finances or politics. But as a serious collector, I am taking an active interest in the future of stamp collecting, dealers, the marketplace, and the APS.