The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman Scheme is pleased to announce the appointment of Simon Cohen, as its new Ombudsman.

Currently Victoria’s Public Transport Ombudsman, Mr Cohen has worked in complaints investigation and resolution for more than 15 years. His previous roles include Assistant Ombudsman (Police) and lawyer at the NSW Ombudsman; prior to that he worked at the Commonwealth Administrative Appeals Tribunal and the NSW Health Care Complaints Commission.

Announcing Mr Cohen’s appointment, TIO Board Chair John Rohan and Council Chair Virginia Hickey said the TIO had conducted an extensive search nationally for a suitable successor to the previous Ombudsman Ms Deirdre O’Donnell and was very pleased that Mr Cohen had accepted the role.

Mr Rohan said, ``Simon has extensive experience in complaints handling across various public services. He has the skills to take the TIO forward and make a valuable contribution to the telecommunications industry.’’

Ms Hickey thanked the Acting Ombudsman, Simon Cleary, for leading the organisation since Ms O’Donnell’s departure earlier this year.