DMC appoints Independent Appeals Commissioner

We are delighted to announce that Cosmo Graham, a senior legal academic with expertise in customer service complaint handling, has been appointed the DMC's new Independent Appeals Commissioner (IAC).  Cosmo commences his role in June, replacing Steve Wood, our former Appeals Commissioner who retired this year.    We have put together a short Q&A to share more about Cosmo and the IAC role:

• What does the Appeals Commissioner do?

Following a formal investigation and adjudication, a member of the DMA or complainant can appeal against the DMC’s conclusions and any sanctions that have been imposed.  The Appeals Commissioner will agree to consider an appeal as long as it is based on one or more of five grounds which have been defined in the DMA Code (find out more about the grounds for appeal and the process here). 

• Why is this role so important?

It is crucial for the DMC to have an independent person who sits outside the Board, and who can maintain an objective view of issues and cases.  Whilst our aim is to provide fair and proportionate conclusions and sanctions, there will be times when members or complainants disagree with our decisions.  We need someone with the right expertise who can oversee those decisions and ultimately help us reach the appropriate conclusion, ensuring everyone adheres to the principles of the Code to build trust, confidence and drive effectiveness in marketing.

We asked Cosmo if he could share some information about his background … and what he can bring to the role.

• Tell us about yourself..

I am an emeritus Professor of Law at the University of Leicester with a long academic career specialising in administrative and competition law as well as regulation.  I was formerly a member of the Competition Commission and until recently I was the external reviewer for the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman.  I am currently the Independent Customer Service Complaints Reviewer for the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman and the Independent Reviewer for the Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman.

• What can you bring to the role as Independent Appeals Commissioner ?

I think I can bring to this position a deep understanding of the principles of judicial review, a long history of working within regulated industries and substantial experience of consumer complaint handling.

Emma Martins, Chief Commissioner said, “I am delighted to welcome Cosmo Graham as the new Independent Appeals Commissioner. He brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be invaluable to his role. Having robust governance and oversight structures in place ensures our continued commitment to building trust and confidence in the DMA Code and our role in its oversight.  I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Steve Wood for his support and commitment to the DMC over the last three years, it has been an honour to have him on board”.