13 April 2026
The News Media Association, the voice of the UK’s local and national news media industry, has announced the appointment of Theo Bamber as its next chief executive.
Theo is currently chief policy and public affairs officer at the Music Publishers’ Association, with a wealth of experience working in agencies to support a range of clients, including many in the creative sectors.
Theo will succeed Owen Meredith, the current chief executive, who is joining dmg media in May.
NMA chairman Lord Black of Brentwood said: “We are delighted that Theo will be joining us as the NMA’s CEO, as the news industry focusses on the long-term sustainability of frontline news gathering and reporting. As AI continues to disrupt how users discover information and makes generation and dissemination of misleading content ever easier, news brands deliver readers with trusted news and information, a vital antidote to mis and disinformation. Theo has an outstanding track record in political and government affairs and brings a wealth of experience to lead the NMA’s advocacy as this critical time.
“I pay enormous tribute to Owen Meredith for his exemplary leadership of the NMA over five tumultuous years for our industry. He has led the Association with the greatest skill, energy and vision at a time of rapid change – not least in the legislative environment in which we operate.
“He has transformed the NMA’s communications and its profile within Westminster, built formidable relationships with stakeholders – not least with the Make It Fair campaign – and successfully navigated landmark legislation, including the Online Safety Act, the Digital Markets Act and the Media Act. I am delighted he is staying within the industry. We wish him well and look forward to continuing to work with him.”
Theo Bamber said: “The UK’s news media is the heartbeat of our democracy, but its vital role is too often taken for granted. The NMA’s next chapter is about turning recent, hard-won legislative progress into long-term commercial security and sustainability for the entire industry.
“I am privileged to be leading the NMA at such a pivotal time— championing our free and diverse press, promoting professional journalism and its role in holding power to account, and protecting the value created in newsrooms across the country.”
Theo will join the NMA on 18 May.