City veteran Sir Ian Cheshire is the frontrunner to become chair of UK media regulator Ofcom, according to sources familiar with the selection process. Cheshire, who previously chaired Channel 4, has been shortlisted alongside two senior politicians for the role, which is due to be announced on Tuesday. The selection comes at a critical juncture for Ofcom as it implements the Online Safety Act.

Ofcom faces mounting pressure over its regulation of GB News and X, while scaling up enforcement of new rules requiring tech platforms to protect children from harmful content. Current chair Lord Michael Grade will step down at the end of April. Cheshire's appointment would be notable given his corporate background, contrasting with the political experience of other shortlisted candidates.

The decision is subject to parliamentary scrutiny, and sources caution the process could still change despite Cheshire's current frontrunner status. His extensive corporate experience includes roles at Kingfisher, Barclays, and BT, as well as government advisory positions. The selection will shape how Ofcom navigates its expanded regulatory mandate in the coming years.