A former editor in charge of the magazine industry’s trade body has joined the board of the press watchdog.

The Independent Press Standards Organisation has announced the appointment of Barry McIlheney, CEO of the Professional Publishers Association.

Barry, pictured is a former editor and publisher of titles including 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.

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

Barry 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 added: “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.”