[ietf-nomcom] NomCom 2023 IETF Chair/GEN AD Term Reset Proposal

[NomCom Chair 2023 <[e-mail]>]

All,

In discussions of the process for replacing Lars as IETF chair, it was observed that the IETF chair role is exceptional. With the vacancy coming at the March IETF, it is possible that the term could be reset.

According to Section 3.5 of RFC 8713, when filling a vacancy of precisely one year, the new term is a single year. Though this does not apply in this case, a vacancy that occurs after the meeting results in a term that is almost three years.

For other positions, it is necessary to ensure that the usual cadence of replacements remains synchronised with other appointments to the same position. The IETF chair has no such need.

In requesting that the NomCom fill this vacancy, the IESG have expressed a preference for a two year term. However, this would deviate from the documented process.

The question therefore:
    Should the cycle of appointments for IETF chair (GEN AD) be reset? 

If the term is reset in 2024, someone selected for IETF chair would have a two year term. Subsequent IETF chairs would then be selected for 2026 and subsequent even-numbered years thereafter, or until a similar reset occurs.

The NomCom would like to solicit community feedback on this suggestion.  Input on this process is welcome over the next month at [e-mail], ending on 2023-10-20.  As the responsible body for RFC 8713, the IESG will be responsible for judging consensus and whether this process variation is acceptable to the community.

If the community does not reach consensus, the rules in RFC 8713 will be followed strictly. The next IETF chair will be seated for one year.  The possibility of term variation will be made known to prospective nominees as part of the upcoming call for nominations.

Martin Thomson
[e-mail]