Ofcom names new CTO

Mansoor Hanif

UK media and communications regulator Ofcom has named Mansoor Hanif as chief technology officer.

The Ofcom CTO is tasked with helping to ensure that Ofcom’s work for people and businesses is informed by current developments in networks and other technology.

Mansoor was most recently director of the Converged Networks Research Lab at BT, leading research into both landline and mobile networks.

Before joining BT in 2016, he held a number of positions at the mobile operator EE – now part of the BT Group. These  included overarching responsibility for integrating the Orange and T-Mobile networks, which together formed the EE network; and leading the technical launch of the UK’s first 4G network.

He previously worked for Vodafone Italy and Orange Group, and also established his own engineering company in Rome.

He will take up his post on September 17, replacing Steve Unger, who left Ofcom in June.

“The industries Ofcom regulates are evolving at an unprecedented rate – this dynamism is driven by technological innovation. I’m particularly excited to join Ofcom at this pivotal point when ultrafast broadband, 5G mobile and the Internet of Things are converging to transform communications and increase productivity across all industries,” said Hanif.

“My priority will be to help Ofcom accelerate the growth of world-class, secure and universal communications services across the UK – underpinned by the most creative and innovative technology.”

Sharon White, Ofcom CEO, said: “I am delighted to appoint Mansoor as Ofcom’s Chief Technology Officer, where he will bring extensive, specialist knowledge and experience. This important role helps to ensure our work is informed by current and emerging technology, and that our regulation works effectively in the digital age. As we take an increased role in cyber security, this is more important than ever.”