McIlheney will join the lay majority Board as an industry member, bringing his many years of experience as Editor and Publisher of iconic brands such as Smash Hits, Q, Empire, Elle, and The Face.

He sits on the boards of the European Magazine Media Association and FIPP, the global media network, and in 2018, was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the magazine industry in his native Ireland.

McIlheney was appointed by the independent IPSO Appointments Panel, chaired by Sir Hayden Phillips.

Barry McIlheney said: “I am delighted to join the IPSO Board. Robust self-regulation is an essential element of a free press, and I look forward to helping build on the successful IPSO foundations established over the last few years.”

IPSO Chairman Lord Edward Faulks said: “I am pleased to welcome Barry to the IPSO Board. His wealth of experience in the magazine sector will be invaluable as we continue our independent, effective regulation of the press and his appointment demonstrates the value and importance distinguished journalists attribute to IPSO”.