AvePoint Partner Account Manager interview questions

Three stage interview process for role in Melbourne, Australia. First interview with HR, then hiring manager (Channel Sales Lead) and finally GM of Sales. That process took around 3 weeks, then things went quiet. Following up regularly for the next 2 weeks until HR asked for reference checks. Almost a week after providing and still not hearing anything, followed up again, advised the next day I was unsuccessful. The interview process was fine, all the interviewers were easy to talk to, AvePoint seemed like it would've been a great company to work for and at every stage was told my background and skillset aligned well. However, the drawn out process was unprofessional. Given the late stages I was at, I was holding back interviews elsewhere, only to be told I was unsuccessful 3 weeks after my last interview and a week after providing references (which weren't even contacted). Furthermore, to be told via email and not a phone call, nor receive critical feedback on why I was unsuccessful outside of being impressed with my skill set, but the competitive nature of others meant they'd be going another direction, is also poor form. I've emailed and contacted both HR and the hiring manager for feedback, but none has yet come. EDIT: I was finally contacted by the hiring manager who advised the role had been put on hold as they were in the final run home for the FY, which somewhat contradicts what HR advised that it was competition that beat me out. AvePoint have some great technology and I know some great people working there, but the lack of communication has left me frustrated and disappointed and not a company I'd look to work for, at least in the short term.