Breaking: SAP User Group fires CEO
The American SAP User Group is understood to have fired Steve Strout, the organization's first full time CEO. Sources close to ASUG say that an email was sent by the ASUG board to all members suggesting that the board had become dis-satisfied with Strout's performance and want 'alternative leadership' who will better further member interests.
Earlier in the year, SAP and ASUG issued a joint statement regarding the forthcoming price hike in maintenance where it appeared that ASUG was in enthusiastic support of SAP's action. In the meantime, I have struggled to find a single customer that is happy with SAP's proposals, although it is now understood that roll out of the price hike is contingent upon SAP meeting as yet to be agreed KPIs.
Strout's successor has not been named. It is also understood that ASUG is concerned that its 2009 conference will see significantly fewer attendees as companies reign in travel arrangements.