Ofcom confirms Richards has applied for BBC director general job

Ed Richards

Ofcom has confirmed that its chief executive Ed Richards has applied for the BBC director-general job.

In a statement, the UK communications regulator said it had put measures in place to prevent any conflicts of interest. “Given the significant level of speculation surrounding potential applicants for the BBC director general role, Ofcom can confirm that CEO Ed Richards has applied. Robust procedures, agreed by the Ofcom chairman and the board, have been put in place to prevent any potential conflict of interest,” Ofcom noted.

“Ed has already stepped aside from all discussions and communication at all levels on matters where the BBC may have an interest. This includes board meetings, executive meetings and policy discussions, both formal and informal.”

Richards has worked at Ofcom since 2003, becoming CEO in 2006. Prior to joining the regulator he was senior policy advisor to Tony Blair during his tenure as prime minister, for media, telecoms, the internet and e-government. He has also worked as controller of corporate strategy at the BBC.

Other candidates for the director general job are thought to include Caroline Thomson, the BBC’s chief operating officer, George Entwistle, the director of BBC Vision, BBC News director Helen Boaden and director of BBC Audio and Music Tim Davie.

Mark Thompson, the current BBC director general, has signalled his intention to step down before the Olympic Games.