Welsh technology wizard wins place on Ofcom’s board
TECHNOLOGY entrepreneur David Jones has been appointed as the first board member for Wales with Ofcom, the independent regulator and competition authority for the UK communications industries.
His appointment, which is for a four-year term with an annual salary of £42,519 for two days a week, has been confirmed by the Welsh Government following consultation with the UK Government’s Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Jeremy Wright.
He is currently an independent non-executive director of Aneurin Bevan University Health Board and the Welsh Revenue Authority, the body responsible for collecting and managing Welsh taxes on behalf of the Welsh Government, and is a member of the board of Qualifications Wales.
Mr Jones, originally from Wrexham, said: “I am privileged to have the opportunity to take on this new role at an important time for Ofcom.
“Making sure that people across Wales have the broadcasting services they need and that consumers have access to good-quality communications services, especially
in the most rural areas, here in Wales and across the UK, is vital. I look forward to contributing to Ofcom’s continuing discussion.”
Ofcom chairman Terry Burns said: “I am delighted David Jones has been confirmed as the first Ofcom board member for Wales. His appointment will strengthen the board’s ability to represent the voices of people from across the UK, as we work to ensure everyone gets the most from their communications services.”
Ofcom chief executive Sharon White said: “David’s wide range of experience, including his work on digital communications and cyber-security, will prove hugely valuable to Ofcom. I’m looking forward to working together to improve communications for people and businesses, wherever they live and work.”
Lord Elis-Thomas, Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism, said: “This is an important appointment and I wish David every success. Broadcasting in Wales is going through a welcome period of renewal that must deliver comprehensive services, in Welsh and English, which properly reflect a nation with its own language, culture and political institutions. Ofcom has a key role to play in ensuring this happens. A strong voice for Wales on its board is a great step forward.”
Deputy Minister for Economy and Transport Lee Waters said: “I congratulate David on this key appointment. Ofcom has a vital role in improving access to fast broadband and reliable mobile coverage in Wales. I am pleased that, through David, Wales will have a strong voice on the Ofcom board that will ensure that the connectivity needs of Wales will be represented.”
Ofcom has responsibilities across television, radio, video on demand, telecoms, wireless communications and postal services.