FOS names new chief executive and chief ombudsman

The Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) board has appointed Jenny Simmonds as its new chief executive and James Dipple-Johnstone as chief ombudsman.

Their appointments follow an open recruitment process led by the board earlier this summer.

Initially taking up their roles on an interim basis in February 2025, both appointees have led the service through a significant period of change, working together with the government and FCA to develop and deliver a series of reforms to the UK’s redress system.

Liam Coleman, interim chair at the FOS, said: ”Simmonds and Dipple-Johnstone have provided strong leadership during a period of significant change, delivering improvements to operations and timeliness and driving forward proposals to transform the organisation.

“I am pleased that they will continue to build on this work as they lead the service on a permanent basis, providing stable leadership and clear direction for our dedicated colleagues as the FOS continues to evolve.”

Next chapter 

Simmonds has served at the FOS since 2023, starting as chief finance and risk officer at the complaints service. 

Meanwhile, Dipple-Johnstone joined the service in 2022 as deputy chief ombudsman. Prior to this, he spent over five years as deputy commissioner at the Information Commisioner’s Office.

Simmonds said: “It’s an honour to lead this organisation and I’m proud of everything we have achieved together over the past year. I’m looking forward to continuing to work with colleagues to improve our service for customers.”

Dipple-Johnstone added: “We deliver a vital service and it’s a privilege to be appointed as chief ombudsman.

”The commitment of our colleagues across the organisation gives me great confidence as we continue modernising our service and strengthening the impact we have for consumers and businesses.”