Priya Dogra will become Channel 4’s second female chief executive, succeeding Alex Mahon who stepped down after eight years, with Dogra taking the helm in March next year.

Dogra is currently Sky’s Chief Advertising, Group Data and New Revenue Officer, and has led initiatives such as Universal Ads with ITV and Channel 4 to broaden access to TV advertising for small businesses.

Her background includes 14 years at Time Warner/WarnerMedia and Warner Bros Discovery, most recently as president and managing director, plus prior leadership in M&A and corporate strategy.

The recruitment process for Channel 4’s next chief executive was tightly controlled and confidential, with insiders noting the secrecy surrounding the decision.

The Desk’s report announcing Dogra’s appointment is dated December 10, 2025, authored by Matthew Keys.

Channel 4 is pursuing a twin-track strategy of IP ownership and in-house production, including exploring acquisitions of production banners while expanding its digital ambitions.

The move has broader industry implications, as former CEO Mahon is discussed as a potential candidate to succeed Tim Davie as BBC director general.

Dogra’s career includes time at Citi early on and advisory roles to three CEOs, with a strong track record in strategic initiatives.

Emma Lloyd of Netflix reportedly withdrew from Channel 4’s CEO recruitment process after being considered a frontrunner.

Channel 4’s five-year plan, begun in early 2024, aims to become a digital-first public service streamer by 2030, including significant workforce and operations transformation.

Geoff Cooper, Channel 4 chair since September, is leading the recruitment with support from executive search firm Spencer Stuart.

Jonathan Allan will remain interim chief executive until Dogra starts in March, a transition that the board says reflects leadership stability during market challenges.