Luke Johnson, owner of London's famous Ivy restaurant, has been appointed as the new chairman of broadcaster Channel 4 - parent company of FilmFour.

Media regulator Ofcom appointed Johnson as Channel 4's new chairman. He replaces Vanni Treves.

Johnson, 42, whose Ivy restaurant is a favourite among celebrities, will work alongside Channel 4 chief executive Mark Thompson, who oversees day-to-day operations.

Johnson has a long track-record as an entrepreneur. His business ventures have ranged from the internet to nightclubs and have spanned all sectors of the dining industry, from Pizza Express to upmarket establishments such as Le Caprice and The Ivy.

Channel 4 closed down its standalone film operation in 2002, reinventing FilmFour as new inhouse film division under Tessa Ross.