It is reported that Denise Kingsmill, the deputy chairman of the Competition Commission, has been asked to become the new independent chairman of ITV.
According to the
Independent On Sunday, Kingsmill was approached by head hunters for Carlton and Granada last week.
It is understood the groups have been looking to recruit a new chairman from outside ITV. Sir Brian Pittman, the former head of Lloyds TSB is to be interim chairman until a replacement is found.
The latest move follows the ousting of Michael Green by shareholders (see Green Relinquishes Role As ITV Chairman Designate), led by Anthony Bolton of Fidelity Investments. Bolton has already suggested that John Nelson, the outgoing chairman of investment bank CSFB, should take the position. Sir Christopher Gent, who received a controversial £10 million bonus package from Vodafone, has also been in the frame.
The appointment of Kingsmill would undoubtedly be welcomed by media commentators who have criticised ITV for its choice of a distinctly old style board of familiar male suspects (see ITV Unveils New Board).
Kingsmill has also been linked to the chairperson’s position at Channel 4 which will become vacant when Vanni Treves retires at the end of the year.
A meeting of an ITV nominations committee is set to take place this week to discuss the selection procedure.
