Government names Ian Cheshire preferred candidate for Ofcom chair

(Sharecast News) - The government said on Wednesday that businessman Ian Cheshire is its preferred candidate to be appointed chair of Ofcom, the independent regulator for communications. It said Cheshire brings extensive experience of senior leadership across the private and public sectors, with a strong track record in governance, consumer facing regulation and organisational change.

Most recently, he was the chair of Channel 4, having been appointed in April 2022 before leaving at the end of his term in April 2025.

If appointed to Ofcom, he would succeed Michael Grade, whose term as chair concludes at the end of April.

Cheshire has previously served as chief executive of B&Q owner Kingfisher, before going on to hold a number of senior non‑executive and advisory roles spanning business, sustainability and public policy, including as chair of Barclays, Debenhams, Maisons du Monde and Menhaden.

Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said: "The work of Ofcom has never been more relevant to people's lives, from protecting people online to supporting the growth of our communications sector. The organisation sits at the heart of some of the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the country.

"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."

Cheshire will be subject to a pre-appointment hearing by the Science, Innovation and Technology Select Committee, before a final appointment decision is confirmed.