Ofcom Appoints New Chief Executive

LONDON: Sharon White has been tapped as the new chief executive of Ofcom, replacing Ed Richards, who will step down at the end of December after leading the organization for eight years.

White will join Ofcom in late March 2015 from HM Treasury, where she is second permanent secretary. She is currently the lead official responsible for managing the U.K.'s public finances, a position she has held since November 2013. Before that, she served as director general of public spending at HM Treasury.

Steve Unger, the director of Ofcom's strategy, international, technology and economist group, will serve as acting chief executive ahead of White starting in her role.

Dame Patricia Hodgson, Ofcom's chairman, said: "Sharon brings with her an outstanding combination of intellect, political acumen and experience leading complex public organizations.

"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 U.K. that operates in the public interest."

White said: "The communications sector is vital to the economy and delivers essential services to everyone in the U.K. I look forward to starting in this fascinating job and building on Ofcom's considerable track record."