The prior Conservative administration appointed Michael Grade, a Tory peer, as chair in 2022. His term concludes on April 26, and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, overseeing the recruitment, aims to announce his successor before that date.
The interview panel, consisting of civil servants and independent members, is set to provide Technology Secretary Liz Kendall with a shortlist of approved candidates.
Former Conservative Culture Secretary Jeremy Wright is also a contender, as stated by the same two sources. Wright, a key figure in the Online Safety Act (OSA), has criticized Ofcom’s execution of this prominent legislation.
Channel 4’s former Chairman Ian Cheshire is reportedly also on the shortlist, according to The Telegraph.
Kendall has expressed criticism towards Ofcom for its slow implementation of certain OSA provisions. She cautioned last November about the risk of losing public trust.
Ofcom, which oversees TV and radio, is preparing for a comprehensive review of the telecoms industry, which is being transformed by advancements in artificial intelligence and satellite technology.
A DSIT representative stated they couldn’t comment on the recruitment process. Hodge did not immediately respond to a request for comment.













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