One of the UK’s most influential commissioners and a key figure behind Channel 4’s push beyond London is stepping down this autumn
Chief Content Officer Ian Katz will leave the broadcaster this autumn after almost nine years, during which he helped drive both its streaming transformation and its wider Nations & Regions strategy.
Katz was “pivotal in shaping the out of London commissioning team as part of the Channel’s wider Nations & Regions strategy,” as Channel 4 increased its focus on production and talent outside the capital.
His departure comes at a time of wider uncertainty across the UK’s public service broadcasting landscape. The BBC has announced plans to cut up to 2,000 jobs as part of £500m savings, prompting fresh concern about the knock-on impact on freelancers, independent producers and regional creative economies.
His tenure has also coincided with a major shift in how audiences consume Channel 4 content, with streaming rising from 20% to 50% of all viewing, and 60% of viewing among under-34s now taking place via streaming.
Alongside that digital shift, Katz has overseen a slate of critically acclaimed programming including Virgin Island, Dirty Business, A Woman of Substance, Handcuffed: Last Pair Standing, Secret Genius and The Piano, as well as continued success for returning hits such as Taskmaster, Gogglebox and The Great British Bake Off.
He has also been a vocal advocate for new and diverse talent, backing names including Big Narstie, Nicola Coughlan, Mo Gilligan, Joe Lycett and Rosie Jones, while championing initiatives such as the Black to Front Project.
Priya Dogra said: “Ian has been an outstanding creative leader for Channel 4 over nearly nine years – the channel’s longest-serving head of programming. He has overseen an era of creative renewal, delivering bold and distinctive public service programming with intellectual rigour, good humour and an unmistakably Channel 4 glint in the eye. He will be greatly missed, but I’m delighted that he will remain with us for some months yet, continuing to lead our creative output, commissioning decisions and delivery of the 2026 slate.”
Katz added: “It’s been a privilege beyond words to lead Channel 4’s talented and passionate commissioning team through such a transformative period. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved, from pioneering the evolution of a commercial public service broadcaster into a digital streaming business, to backing groundbreaking programmes and talent that have brought a bit of joy to audience’s lives. Above all I’m proud that Channel 4 has continued to be as disruptive and impertinent as ever, asking the questions and covering the stories that other broadcasters and streamers won’t. The channel’s 2026 slate is stronger than ever, and I look forward to watching its continued success under Priya’s leadership.”
Katz will remain in post until October, continuing to commission and oversee delivery of the 2026 slate.
