Ofcom names ex-Sky News exec as broadcasting and media chief

UK media watchdog Ofcom has appointed Cristina Nicolotti Squires to lead its work in regulating the UK’s TV, radio and on-demand industries, replacing interim broadcast chief Siobhan Walsh.

Cristina Nicolotti Squires

Nicolotti Squires joins Ofcom’s senior management team as group diirector for broadcasting and media. She will lead the group responsible for broadcasting policy and regulation.

The broadcasting and media group is charged with setting and upholding standards on air, protecting audiences from offensive and harmful material, upholding the integrity of news and current affairs programmes, and preserving freedom of expression.

The group is also tasked with ensuring that broadcasters continue to provide quality programmes and services that meet the changing needs of viewers and listeners.

Nicolotti Squires j brings more than 30 years of broadcasting experience to the role. Most recently she was director of content at Sky News, leading teams responsible for creating content across TV, radio and digital platforms. During this time, she successfully launched new TV news programmes and a range of digital and audio products.

Before this she was editor at ITN’s 5 News, responsible for provision of TV news programmes and digital content for Channel 5. She also held senior leadership positions at ITV News after starting her career in print and local TV news.

Nicolotti Squires j said: “We’ve never had so much choice of where and how to get our entertainment and information, and never has it been so important to ensure fairness and accuracy while embracing the fundamental principle of free speech. I am delighted to be taking on this role championing viewers and listeners at such a critical moment for the UK media industry.”

Dame Melanie Dawes, Ofcom’s chief executive, said: “Cristina’s significant broadcasting experience will be a major asset to Ofcom. I’m very much looking forward to working with her.”

Dawes also thanked Walsh, Ofcom’s senior broadcasting director who has led the Broadcasting and Media Group on an interim basis since April 2023. Walsh will continue in place until Squires arrives, before returning to her previous role.