Ofcom appoints new CEO

Communications regulator Ofcom has appointed Ed Richards as its new chief executive officer.

Richards joined the Ofcom board in March 2003, and in July 2005 he was promoted to chief operating officer.

He was previously the prime minister's senior policy advisor on media, telecoms, internet and e-government.  Other previous positions include controller of corporate strategy at the BBC and a consulting post at London Economics Ltd.

Ofcom chairman David Currie said, "Ed has played a critically important role in the establishment of Ofcom. He has a profound understanding of the markets we regulate and is ideally placed to lead the organisation into the future."

Richards said, “This is a fascinating job in a fascinating and fast-changing area. We have a strong organisation, committed people and a track record that we intend to build on.”

Richards replaces Stephen Carter, who left Ofcom earlier this year.