Freedom of Information blogger Steve Wood, who founded the UK Freedom of Information Blog, has started work for the Information Commissioner’s Office.

He is now responsible for leading the FoI policy team which develops policy relating to Freedom of Information Act issues and provides advice on the substance, quality and consistency of freedom of information complaints.

He joins the Information Commissioner’s Office from Liverpool John Moores University where he was programme leader for the BSc E-Business programme. He previously worked for HM Treasury and the Cabinet Office as intranet and extranet manager.

Steve has become recognised as one the country’s leading commentators on the Freedom of Information Act and is a respected member of the FOI community.

The blog, which has been running for four years, is now being maintained by the Campaign for Freedom of Information.

Information Commissioner Richard Thomas said: “His expertise in freedom of information will further strengthen our FOI policy team. The Freedom of Information Act has been a significant success since its introduction two years ago and Steve’s appointment will help to ensure this success continues.”

Steve said: “I am very pleased to be taking on this position at the Information Commissioner’s Office. Having been a close observer of the Freedom of Information Act, and written extensively about it, I am excited about the prospect of working at the heart of the freedom of information process from the inside.”