A director at a Ukrainian bank has joined the board of the Independent Press Standards Organisation.

The press watchdog has announced the appointment of Shrenik Davda as a member of its lay-majority board.

Mr Davda, pictured, has almost 40 years of emerging markets banking experience with leading global institutions such as JPMorgan and Deutsche Bank.

He is currently an independent member of the supervisory boards of Ukrgasbank, a leading Ukrainian bank, and Nova Ljubljanska Banka, a universal bank active in South-Eastern Europe.

Mr Davda has also served as a trustee for international NGOs focused on orphan support in East Africa, humanitarian aid for refugees in the Middle East and girls’ education in Kenya.

He said: “A strong, free and ethical press is vital for well-functioning democracies.

“During my career, I have spent time in emerging countries where the negative consequences of not having an independent press are readily apparent.

“IPSO clearly has a pivotal role in ensuring that a vigorous, challenging press industry works within clear parameters by ensuring compliance with appropriate editorial standards.

“I am looking forward to contributing my diverse governance experience to help IPSO discharge its vital role.”

Chairman of IPSO Lord Faulks QC added: “I’m delighted to welcome Shrenik to the IPSO board.

“He has a wealth of experience which will further strengthen the organisation and support IPSO’s continued delivery of independent, robust press regulation.”