After nearly eight years leading the charge, Alex Mahon, Channel 4’s first female CEO, is stepping down this summer. Her time at the top saw both creative highs and some significant industry shifts, leaving a real mark on the UK broadcaster.
Under Mahon’s watch, Channel 4 delivered some truly acclaimed programming. Think standout hits like “It’s A Sin,” “Help,” “The Piano,” and the impactful documentary “Russell Brand: In Plain Sight,” all earning critical praise and connecting strongly with viewers. Film4 also flourished during her tenure, backing award-winning and popular films such as “A Zone of Interest,” “The Banshees of Inisherin,” and “All of Us Strangers.”
Of course, her role wasn’t without its tough spots. Mahon faced the persistent threat of privatisation – a challenge that still hangs over Channel 4. She also oversaw the major move of operations outside London, aiming to better represent audiences across the UK. Add to that the constant changes in advertising and the huge digital shift across media, and it’s clear she dealt with ongoing hurdles.
In her own words, Mahon called leading Channel 4 a “lifetime privilege,” highlighting the broadcaster’s unique place in British TV. Dawn Airey, the current interim chair, didn’t hold back her praise, calling Mahon a “great figure in British television” and placing her among the most influential CEOs since the channel’s founder, Jeremy Isaacs – high praise indeed. While the search for a successor gets underway, Chief Operating Officer Jonathan Allan will step in as interim CEO.
