Gaon Hart appointed as new Immigration Services Commissioner
The Home Secretary has approved the appointment for a period of five years.
The Immigration Advice Authority (IAA) has today announced the appointment of Gaon Hart, who will serve as the new Immigration Services Commissioner.
Gaon joins the IAA at a critical juncture as the organisation advances its mission to guarantee that everyone seeking immigration advice has access to safe, localised, and accurate services. As Commissioner, Gaon will provide decisive leadership, set a clear strategic vision for the robust regulation of immigration advisers, and spearhead efforts to prevent, disrupt and deter unregulated practices.
Commenting on their appointment, Gaon Hart, said:
I am honoured to take on the role of Immigration Services Commissioner at such a crucial time. Access to high-quality immigration advice is essential for those navigating complex and life-changing decisions. Equally, those who provide such vital regulated advice, require support and assurance from a robust regulator.
I am determined to raise the bar for professional standards to protect those most at risk.
Together, with our impressive colleagues across the IAA and our partners, I will champion professionalism, strengthen compliance, and lead the sector toward a future where every advice seeker receives reliable, regulated advice.
Heather Laing, Chief Executive, added:
We are delighted to welcome Gaon as our new Commissioner. His leadership will be instrumental as the IAA continues to expand its public awareness efforts, increase compliance activity, and uphold the highest standards across the immigration advice sector.
Gaon brings extensive experience assuring regulatory standards, enforcement, anti-human trafficking, anti-corruption, fraud prevention, and legal ethics. Most recently serving as the Interim Chair of the NHS Counter Fraud Authority and as Chair of the Police Advisory Board for England and Wales. His technological and AI expertise have been honed in the private sector and previously as a Senior Crown Advocate in the Crown Prosecution Service’s Special Crime and Counter-Terrorism Division. Throughout his career, he has focused on combating corruption, economic crime and unethical behaviour, developing ESG frameworks, advancing human rights initiatives, and strengthening public-sector governance – positioning him to play a defining role in shaping the future of the sector during this transformative period.
Gaon formally assumed the role on 12 December 2025.