EXCLUSIVE: Channel 4‘s next chief executive will lead the UK network into the “most important phase” in its 42-year history.
That’s according to a leaked copy of the briefing document sent to candidates by headhunters Spencer Stuart, as Channel 4 ramps up efforts to replace Alex Mahon.
The 19-page job spec, published in full below, provides an overview of Channel 4’s creative and financial health, while emphasizing its ambition to become a “digital-first public service streamer” by 2030.
On a page titled ‘Role and desired outcomes,’ the Spencer Stuart job spec defines what success will look like across three areas in the first 12-18 months of next Channel 4 CEO’s tenure.
The first involves “reimagining the business model” by addressing declines in advertising revenue. This includes partnerships, platform innovation, and “bold” ideas.
The second expectation outlined by Channel 4’s board is “reconnecting with viewers through creative impact.” It implores the next CEO to take content performance to the “next level” and ensure Channel 4 remains “culturally relevant” to younger audiences.
The third priority in the job spec is “leading with purpose and collaboration,” which calls for “clarity of vision” and an understanding of Channel 4’s remit as a government-owned, but commercially self-sustaining company.
The document also reflects on Channel 4’s “quick Forward” strategy, doubling down on pledges to close linear channels and move out of the company’s Horseferry Road headquarters.
It references “streamlining Channel 4’s operational costs,” hinting a further structural changes after the broadcaster made 250 redundancies last year.
The CEO role has not yet been formally advertised by Channel 4, but work has been underway for weeks to draw up a long list of contenders for Geoff Cooper, the incoming chair, to whittle down. Cooper does not officially get to work until next month, but Deadline hears he has already met with interim CEO Jonathan Allan.
Allan made clear at the Royal Television Society Cambridge that he intends to throw his hat in the ring. Others linked to the role include All3Media CEO Jane Turton, ITV Studios managing director Julian Bellamy, and YouTube UK chief Alison Lomax. Jay Hunt, Apple’s European content chief, and Simon Pitts, CEO of audio group Global, have also been named as potential candidates.
About the Author
