Richard Hooper appointed as BSG Chairman

Richard Hooper CBE has been appointed as the new non-executive Chairman of the Broadband Stakeholder Group, taking over from Kip Meek.

Richard Hooper has had a long career in the converging worlds of media and communications. He has worked in both broadcasting and telecoms and was Chairman of the Radio Authority and Deputy Chairman of Ofcom 2002-2005. Most recently he led the Independent Review of the Postal Services Sector.

Commenting on the appointment, Antony Walker, the BSG’s CEO said, “I’m absolutely delighted that Richard has agreed to take on this role. He brings an exceptional combination of technical, commercial, regulatory, and policy expertise and is a perfect fit for the BSG. I look forward to working with him closely at this dynamic time in the evolution of the UK’s broadband market???.

Commenting on his appointment, Richard Hooper said, “I am honoured to be asked to chair the BSG succeeding my former Ofcom colleague, Kip Meek. Having devoted my career to communications and media, the challenge of ensuring that the UK’s broadband infrastructure is fit for purpose for the 21st century is undeniably exciting.???

Reflecting on the task ahead Hooper said, “Huge progress has been made over the last few years, but there are major challenges ahead in ensuring we deliver the best possible infrastructure, the widest possible availability and a strong and healthy competitive market. The BSG has a unique role in addressing these challenges and I look forward to playing my part.???

About Richard Hooper CBE
Richard Hooper began his career as a radio and tv producer in the BBC, a founder of the Open University. At BT he ran the world’s first commercial videotex service, Prestel, the precursor to the Internet. He ran the pan-European satellite television channel Super Channel owned by the ITV companies. He was Chairman of the Radio Authority 2002-2003, deputy chairman of Ofcom 2002 – 2005, Chairman of Informa plc 2005-2007.

He currently is Chairman of the Independent Review of the Postal Services Sector, senior independent director on the boards of Yell Group plc and VocaLink Holdings Ltd, and a lead mentor for Bird & Co Executive & Boardroom Mentoring.  He is married to the Australian writer and historian, Meredith Hooper, and lives in North London.

Richard Hooper to Chair Broadband Stakeholder Group – press release in full