Lesley Cowley, a British businesswoman who previously ran Nominet UK, has been named as the new chair of Building Digital UK (BDUK), a government agency tasked with rolling out fast broadband and mobile coverage across the country.
Appointed by Technology Secretary Peter Kyle, Cowely will advise and support the BDUK executive team on the delivery of its programmes: Project Gigabit, a scheme to provide high-speed broadband to areas previously limited to slower speeds, and Shared Rural Network, a partnership programme with mobile network operators to boost 4G coverage in rural communities.
“It is a privilege to join Building Digital UK at such a pivotal moment in its journey. The challenge of ensuring every corner of the UK benefits from fast, reliable digital infrastructure is one I am deeply passionate about,” said Cowley.
“BDUK is a critical enabler of the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change, helping to grow the economy while ensuring communities are not left behind in the digital age. Working alongside the talented team at BDUK, we will continue to deliver on our mission of creating a more connected, inclusive, and digitally empowered nation.”
Cowley spent a decade as chief executive of Nominet, the group responsible for the .uk domain name registry. Her time at Nominet culminated in an OBE awarded for her services to the internet and digital economy.
She has also chaired the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, Companies House and the National Archives.
“Lesley’s commitment to making a positive difference to public facing services, together with her track record in leading digital transformation and delivering innovative solutions, make her an outstanding choice for chair of Building Digital UK,” said Kyle.
“She will be instrumental in helping us deliver on our growth mission, by continuing to drive forward our ambitious plans for better connectivity across the every part of UK, making communities and businesses better off.”
Cowley will take up the post at the start of July, replacing interim chair Hazel Hobbs, appointed in August 2024.
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