IPSO appoints new Chair

Jenny is currently the deputy Chair of the University of East Anglia and Chair of the Broadland Housing Group. Formerly, she was chair of the Electoral Commission (2009–16) and chaired the Independent Complaints Panel for the Portman Group (2013-20).

To protect IPSO’s independence, the selection process was led by an independent external Appointment Panel, chaired by Dame Julia Unwin. She said:

“Jenny Watson has huge experience in leading high-profile organisations with legal and regulatory remits to protect the public. She has formidable experience of bringing together people with diverse opinions to reach consensus. And most importantly, she demonstrated to us her commitment to protecting the public interest and freedom of expression – which is at the heart of what IPSO does.”

Jenny Watson said:

“I am looking forward to taking up this role at a time when the work of journalism in our society is more essential than ever.

“A strong press must be free to inform, scrutinise, challenge, and even provoke. It must also be held to account to encourage the highest standards of accuracy and respect for individuals’ rights, including the right to privacy. This is the best way to protect press freedom and safeguard the public interest.

“I look forward to working with my new colleagues to protect the public interest by defending the fundamental right to freedom of expression and promoting the highest editorial standards across the industry.”

Lord Faulks said:

“I wish Jenny Watson well in this challenging and rewarding role. IPSO has an unmatched understanding of the editorial challenges facing editors and journalists.

“I am grateful to members of IPSO’s Board, Committee, senior management team and all my colleagues at IPSO for their commitment and support throughout my tenure.”

IPSO Chief Executive Charlotte Dewar said:

“It has been a pleasure and an education working with Edward as chair over the last six years. The calm, wisdom, and acumen he brought to the role have supported IPSO’s development into a more confident and secure organisation, despite the rigors of its remit and febrile political environment. His leadership has been pivotal to IPSO’s success over the last six years, including the successful negotiation of a new five-year funding settlement in 2023.

“In Jenny Watson, the Appointment Panel have identified an exceptional successor, who brings wide experience as a Chair and non-executive director, along with a deep commitment to IPSO’s purpose. I look forward to working with her.”

Jenny Watson will become the Chair of IPSO on 13 April 2026, when Lord Faulks steps down. As Chair of IPSO’s Board, she will also serve as Chair of the Complaints Committee, which rules on individual complaints of breaches of the Editors’ Code of Practice.