Ex-Amazon executive Doug Gurr named permanent chair of UK antitrust regulator
By Axel Miller | 23 Feb 2026
Summary
The UK government has appointed former Amazon executive Doug Gurr as the permanent chair of the Competition and Markets Authority, with the nomination subject to parliamentary scrutiny.
LONDON, Feb 23, 2026 — Britain’s government has named Doug Gurr as the permanent chair of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), formalising his role after serving in an interim capacity.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle announced the appointment, which is expected to run for a five-year term once the customary parliamentary scrutiny process is completed.
Leadership confirmed after interim period
Gurr, a former senior executive at Amazon, has been leading the CMA on an interim basis since 2025. His appointment comes as the regulator continues to oversee competition policy across sectors including digital markets, technology, and consumer services.
Government focus on growth and competition
The UK government has said it wants regulators to support economic growth alongside their core mandates, while maintaining strong competition oversight.
Officials indicated the CMA’s role remains focused on ensuring fair markets and protecting consumers, even as policymakers emphasise investment and innovation.
Oversight during expanding regulatory powers
Gurr’s tenure begins as the CMA takes on broader responsibilities, including enforcement under new digital competition rules and continued scrutiny of major technology companies and mergers.
Why this matters
Leadership changes at major regulators can influence enforcement priorities and the pace of policy implementation. The appointment comes at a time when competition authorities globally are expanding oversight of digital markets and emerging technologies.
For businesses, continuity at the CMA provides clarity as companies navigate evolving regulatory frameworks in the UK.
FAQs
Q1. Who is Doug Gurr?
A former Amazon executive and business leader who has been serving as interim chair of the CMA since 2025.
Q2. What does the CMA do?
The Competition and Markets Authority enforces antitrust rules, reviews mergers, and ensures markets work effectively for consumers and businesses.
Q3. Is his appointment final?
It is subject to parliamentary scrutiny, a standard process for senior public appointments.
Q4. How long is the term?
The role is expected to run for five years once confirmed.
Q5. What areas will he oversee?
Competition enforcement across sectors including digital markets, mergers, and consumer protection.
Q6. Why is this appointment significant?
It comes as regulators globally increase oversight of technology companies and digital markets.
