The UK government has named Sir Ian Cheshire as its preferred candidate to become chair of Ofcom, confirming media reports, including Broadband TV News.
The appointment is subject to a pre-appointment hearing before the Science, Innovation and Technology Select Committee. If confirmed, Sir Ian will serve a four-year term.
Sir Ian would succeed Lord Michael Grade, whose current term as Ofcom chair runs until April 30, 2026.
Cheshire is well known in UK media and business circles, having served as chair of Channel 4 from April 2022 until April 10, 2025. His wider career has included senior roles at Kingfisher and Barclays UK, alongside a number of public policy and advisory positions.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said: “Sir Ian has a proven track record of leading complex organisations through periods of significant change, and that is exactly the kind of leadership Ofcom needs right now.
“I also want to pay tribute to Lord Grade for his contribution as Chair. He has steered Ofcom through a period of profound change, and his leadership during the introduction of the Online Safety Act has been pivotal.”
Sir Ian Cheshire said: “Across my career in e-commerce, telecoms and broadcasting I have seen first-hand how much effective regulation matters – for consumers, for businesses and for the wider economy. Ofcom has a critical job to do at a time of rapid change in how people communicate, access information and stay safe online. I look forward to setting out my vision for how Ofcom can meet those challenges when I appear before the Select Committee.”
The chairmanship comes with remuneration of £120,000 a year for 3 days a week. The government said the final decision will be taken after the parliamentary hearing process is completed.
