Ofcom appoints Burns as Channel 4’s new chairman

Ofcom has officially named Terry Burns as the new chairman of Channel 4.

Burns, who replaces Luke Johnson, will join the broadcaster’s board immediately for a three-year period as chairman-designate, according to the regulator.

Johnson will formally step down from the role on 27 January following two three-year terms in the position.

Colette Bowe, Ofcom’s chairman, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to appoint someone of Terry Burns’ calibre.

“He has an outstanding record of public service and a real depth of commercial expertise. He will provide strong leadership at a time of considerable change in the broadcasting world.

“I would also like to pay tribute to Luke Johnson’s tremendous contribution to Channel 4 in a period during which it has enjoyed considerable success.”

Burns is currently chairman of Abbey National, Glas Cymru Ltd (Welsh Water) and the Royal Academy of Music.

In the past, he has also been chairman of Marks and Spencer, chief economic advisor and permanent secretary to HM Treasury and an adviser to the Secretary of State on the BBC Charter Review.

Lord Burns said: “I am delighted to be joining Channel 4. This is a time of great change as we experience the impact of the rapid development of digital technology in the communications sector and Channel 4 has a very special and continuing role to play.”

A number of other people were in the spotlight for the job, including Greg Dyke, Richard Eyre and Chorion boss Lord Waheed Alli.

Ofcom was initially understood to be looking for a female candidate for the role but several potentials turned down the chance, including chief executive of Pearson Majorie Scardino and chief exec of Camelot, Dianne Thompson.

Burns was not named as a potential candidate until yesterday.