The Ethics and Integrity Commission (EIC) has announced the appointment of four new Independent Members, set to begin their five-year, non-renewable terms on 1 August 2026. Reverend Ijeoma Ajibade, Dr Samuel Power, Nicola Driver, and Dr Katerina Hadjimatheou will join the body responsible for upholding ethical standards across public life in the UK. These appointments, made following an open and fair competition, are regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments in accordance with the Governance Code on Public Appointments.
The EIC, which was launched on 13 October 2025, replaced the long-standing Committee on Standards in Public Life. Its core mandate is to promote the highest standards of integrity and conduct within public service, report directly to the Prime Minister on related matters, and provide guidance to public authorities on developing robust codes of conduct and effective oversight mechanisms.
The newly appointed members bring a diverse range of expertise to the Commission. Reverend Ijeoma Ajibade has a background in governance, ethics, and policy across public, voluntary, and faith-based sectors, including experience as Chief of Staff to the Archbishop of Canterbury and as an Independent Ethics Advisor to the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Dr Samuel Power, a Lecturer in Politics at the University of Bristol, specialises in political financing, electoral integrity, and ethical standards, and has advised the House of Commons Library and international bodies.
Nicola Driver offers extensive experience in public sector accountability, having worked with the Ethical Standards Commissioner and as an Ombudsman for the New Homes Ombudsman Service and an Independent Complaints Assessor for the Department for Transport. Her expertise lies in standards, governance, and independent administrative review. Dr Katerina Hadjimatheou, a Senior Lecturer in Criminology and Ethics at the University of Essex, holds various independent advisory roles providing ethical oversight to organisations including the Ministry of Defence, the Home Office, and the European Commission.
The new members will contribute to the ongoing work of the EIC as it continues to establish its remit and influence in promoting integrity. Professor Gillian Peele, an existing Independent Member, will conclude her term with the EIC in August 2026, coinciding with the arrival of the new appointees. The Commission's role is crucial in maintaining public trust in government and other public bodies by ensuring high standards of conduct are not only expected but actively maintained and scrutinised.