Ofcom promotes Richards to chief executive

Ofcom has promoted chief operating officer Ed Richards to chief executive, to replace Stephen Carter.

Richards joined Ofcom in 2003 as senior partner and was appointed chief operating officer in July last year. He takes on his new role immediately. Prior to joining Ofcom, Richards was the Prime Minister’s senior policy adviser on media, telecoms, internet and e-government. He was also controller of strategy at the BBC and has worked in consulting.

Ofcom chairman David Currie says of his appointment: “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 adds: “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.”

Carter left Ofcom in July after three-and-a-half years as chief executive.