The appointment follows Amerdeep Somal stepping down as chief commissioner after four years with the DMC.

Martins (pictured) has been data protection commissioner at the Office of Data Protection Authority, Bailiwick of Guernsey since 2018.

Prior to that role, she was information commissioner for the Channel Islands between 2012 and 2018 and data protection commissioner for Jersey between 2005 and 2012.

The DMC investigates and adjudicates on reported breaches of the code by members of the Data & Marketing Association (DMA).

The DMC board said in a statement: “We are incredibly grateful for Amerdeep’s dedication, hard work and guidance throughout a challenging period for our industry and the UK. It is testament to her expertise and leadership qualities that the DMC has gone from strength to strength.

“The board is delighted to welcome Emma Martins as the new chief commissioner. Her vast knowledge and experience as a data protection commissioner will be invaluable to the DMC as its remit and responsibilities continue to grow.”