Chief Executive

What does the CEO do?

The Chief Executive oversees the office of the Investigatory Powers Commissioner. They lead all staff, drive the business agenda and oversee operational tasks within the organisation.

Biography

Richard Thompson OBE joined the Civil Service in 2003 and worked in the Ministry of Defence, the Cabinet Office and the Home Office. He produced the government’s counter-terrorism (CONTEST) strategy in 2018, learning the lessons of the 2017 attacks, and was awarded an OBE for services to countering terrorism in 2019. Most recently, Richard worked as a Deputy Director in the Home Office, responsible for tackling terrorist content online and the Online Safety Act. Away from work, Richard lives in the countryside with his wife and two sons and is a keen cyclist and runner.

Have a question?

Send us a message and we will get in touch as soon as possible

Get in touch

Follow us on Twitter to keep up to date with IPCO

Check our FAQs for answers to commonly asked questions

Read our FAQs