Context
The ICO is seeking views on its draft corporate strategy, ahead of its transition later this year from a single Information Commissioner model to a Commission structure with a non-executive Chair, Board and separate CEO. The new Commission will take over all the functions and responsibilities of the ICO to become the UK’s independent data protection regulator. This change modernises the ICO, strengthening resilience and bringing greater diversity to its strategic direction. The date of transition to this new model is yet to be confirmed but is anticipated to be the autumn of this year. The new Information Commission, as required under the Data Use and Access Act, will then be in a position to prepare and publish its first strategy.
Key points to note and next actions
- In June 2025, the UK Data Use and Access Act confirmed the ICO’s transition from a single Information Commissioner model to a Commission structure.
- It aims to provide a bridge from the present Information Commissioner’s Office “ICO2025” strategy to their future Information Commission governance model. It provides direction and clarity to ICO stakeholders and staff during an important transition for the organisation.
- Views are sought from all interested parties. The survey is open until 23.59 on 23 August 2026 and respondents can comment on the consultation through Citizen Space.
- The Strategy document comments on the ICO’s statutory duties, its purpose, its intended strategic outcomes, risks and priorities (regulatory and transformational), its regulatory approach, and how it will measure and monitor its progress.
- Both the ICO and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology have announced seven new Non-Exec Director appointments to the Board of the new Information Commission. The new NEDs will “…bring a broad range of experience from across business, technology, regulation, governance and public service.”