Ofcom names Sharon White as CEO
Ofcom has appointed Sharon White as its new chief executive, replacing Ed Richards who will step down this month.
Set to earn £275,000 per annum in her new role, White moves to the position from HM Treasury, where she is second permanent secretary.
In this current role, she is the lead official responsible for managing the UK's public finances, a position she has held since November 2013.
White said: "The communications sector is vital to the economy and delivers essential services to everyone in the UK. I look forward to starting in this fascinating job and building on Ofcom's considerable track record."
The appointment was made by the Ofcom Board, involving an independent assessor and subject to approval by the secretary of state for culture, media and sport.
Of the appointment, Ofcom chairman, Dame Patricia Hodgson, said: "Sharon brings with her an outstanding combination of intellect, political acumen and experience leading complex public organisations.
"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."
Bob Wootton, director of media and advertising of the ISBA, added: "Sharon’s experience so far gives us great hope that she will continue the successes of her predecessor Ed Richards. With ever more interesting and challenging times ahead, she has no doubt big boots to fill to maintain the high standard that has been fostered at the evidence-based regulator with added proportionate responses."
White will take up the role in March 2015.
In the meantime, Steve Unger, director of Ofcom's strategy, international, technology and economist group will be named acting chief executive.