Freeview managing director Ilse Howling has been appointed as chairman of the Board of Trustees at UNICEF UK.
Howling, who will continue her work at the UK DTT operation, has served on UNICEF UK’s Board of Trustees since July 2009. As the first woman in the role her appointment underlines the organisation’s leading status as one of only four UK charities with equal male and female representation on the board.
Howling was one of the founding team at Freeview, the UK’s biggest TV provider, and became its Managing Director in 2005. With a background in marketing and communications, Howling spent 12 years at the BBC, most recently leading its digital marketing function. She also worked within the corporation’s programme making and radio divisions, and spent a spell as a news producer on BBC Radio Five Live.
Lord Ashdown, President of UNICEF UK, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Ilse Howling as our new Chairman of the Board of Trustees. She brings an impressive track record as a trustee, plus a wealth of experience, knowledge and skills, especially in digital innovation and broadcast media. We are all looking forward to working closely with Ilse, particularly as UNICEF UK strives to become a truly ‘digital first’ organisation across our work on fundraising and advocacy to improve the lives of the world’s children.”
Howling said: “Taking on this role is a great privilege. UNICEF has a strong track record in making a real difference to the lives of the children – children who need our help now more than ever before. I’m really looking forward to working with its outstanding team and Board of Trustees to champion children’s rights in new and innovative ways.”
Ms Howling replaces David Stanton, who has stepped down after nine years in the role.
