The Association of Chairs (AoC) recently faced a cyberattack that resulted in the theft of their website domain. The domain, associationofchairs.org.uk, was taken over and put up for sale at an auction. However, with the assistance of Nominet UK, the national domain name registry operator in the UK, AoC successfully reclaimed its original domain. Despite this incident, the organization had already set up a new website, associationofchairs.co.uk, as a precautionary measure following the cyberattack. The recovered domain now redirects users to the new website, ensuring continuity for visitors.
Fortunately, AoC reported that the cyberattack did not lead to any loss of personal data or financial harm, thanks to the implementation of a new website and CRM system earlier in the year. Joe Saxton, the Chair of AoC, commended the team’s efforts in selecting secure and professional suppliers, emphasizing the enhanced security measures that have opened up new opportunities for the organization.
In a bid to provide additional support to its members, AoC recently introduced a service called Chairs in Need, which offers assistance to chairs facing challenges or crises. The initiative, supported by the Garfield Weston Foundation, was launched with the recruitment of mentors and professional consultants to aid chairs in navigating difficult situations.
Moreover, AoC announced the appointment of Liz Lowther as its permanent CEO. Lowther had been serving as the interim chief executive since November 2023. Saxton highlighted Lowther’s vision for the organization’s future development, expressing confidence in her leadership abilities. The decision to make Lowther the permanent CEO was met with unanimous approval, with the board looking forward to the growth and progress under her guidance.
Despite initial concerns about a potential deficit due to investments in the new CRM system and website, AoC managed to break even in the financial year ending March 2025. Saxton attributed this financial stability to effective cost management strategies and increased income from training programs. The organization’s resilience in achieving financial equilibrium reflects its commitment to prudent financial management and sustainable growth.
As the nonprofit sector continues to grapple with evolving cyber threats and the importance of robust online security measures, the experience of AoC serves as a reminder of the critical role that cybersecurity plays in safeguarding organizational assets and maintaining trust with stakeholders. By swiftly responding to the cyberattack and fortifying its digital infrastructure, AoC has demonstrated resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity, setting a positive example for other organizations in the sector.
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