Ofcom Appoints Sharon White As New CEO

Sharon White has been named as the next CEO of Ofcom, replacing Ed Richards who is leaving the UK communications regulator after ten years at the organisation.

White has 25 years’ experience in the public sector and is currently the Second Permanent Secretary at the Treasury, a role which sees her manage the UK’s public finances.

She was appointed to the position in November 2013 having previously served as Director General, Public Spending and has held positions at the Department of Work and Pensions and the Ministry of Justice.

New Ofcom CEO

“Sharon brings with her an outstanding combination of intellect, political acumen and experience leading complex public organisations,” said Ofcom Chairman, Dame Patricia Hodgson. ““The Ofcom Board is confident that Sharon will provide the leadership and vision to ensure Ofcom continues to promote a thriving communications sector in the UK that operates in the public interest.”

White will join in March, with Steve Unger, the director of Ofcom’s Strategy, International, Technology and Economist Group, acting as CEO during the meantime.

“The communications sector is vital to the economy and delivers essential services to everyone in the UK,” added White. “I look forward to starting in this fascinating job and building on Ofcom’s considerable track record.”

Richards has been CEO since 2006 having been Chief Operating Officer since the year before. He applied to become BBC Director General in 2012 but was overlooked in favour of George Entwhistle, whose reign at the broadcaster lasted just 54 days.

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