Clasper In Discussions For ITV Top Job

Mike Clasper, former chief executive of BAA, has apparently been approached by the chairman of ITV about taking over the chief executive role following Charles Allen’s departure.

According to a report in today’s Independent, Clasper has held discussions with Sir Peter Burt and is keen on the job, although there are no guarantees he would take it.

Clasper, a non-executive director at ITV, worked for Proctor & Gamble before joining the airports group BAA.

The Independent says that Clasper’s chairman at BAA was Marcus Agius, head of Lazard, the investment bank that is ITV’s main financial adviser.

Charles Allen announced his departure in August (see Charles Allen Leaves ITV), having presided over a turbulent summer for the broadcaster.

Rupert Howell, regional director and president of McCann-Erickson, was the last figure to be linked with the role of ITV chief executive (see McCann-Erickson President Linked With ITV Top Job).

Other possible candidates for the role include former head of regulatory watchdog Ofcom, Stephen Carter, head of regional newspaper publisher Johnston Press, Roger Parry and chief executive of Five, Jane Lighting.

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