Former Channel 4 CEO Alex Mahon is heading into the live events industry, leading event producer Superstruct and Mahon have confirmed.
Mahon, who quit C4 earlier this week, will succeed Superstruct co-founder and CEO Roderik Schlosser, who will transition to a new role of non-executive director on Superstruct’s board of directors. Superstruct operates Cornwall’s Boardmasters festival, Barcelona’s Sónar and about another 80 music festivals across Europe and Australia.
The company is owned KKR and CVC Capital Partners, private equity firms that back entertainment outfits such as France’s Mediawan.
Sky News reports that Mahon will be on a more lucrative pay deal at Superstruct than she was at Channel 4, where she was the broadcaster’s highest-paid CEO to date.
During her tenure at C4 Mahon, who joined in 2017 as the first female CEO in the broadcaster’s four-decade history, helped fight off an attempt to privatise Channel 4 by a hostile Conservative government, oversaw guiding the broadcaster through the “market shock” of the worst advertising downturn since the financial crisis of 2008, and masterminded the broadcaster’s ongoing transition to digital-first as audiences increasingly abandon traditional viewing. She also led the broadcaster’s high profile pivot away from London, including the opening of its “national HQ” in Leeds and plans to double the broadcaster’s Manchester operation.
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Andrew Fisher, chair of Superstruct Entertainment, said: “We are delighted to welcome Alex to Superstruct at this pivotal moment of our development. Her exceptional track record in the creative sector and experience leading complex organisations through growth and transformation make her the ideal leader as we continue to scale our business globally. As we further strengthen our position as one of the leading live entertainment companies in the world, Alex’s vision and leadership will help us deliver even more extraordinary experiences for our millions of fans around the world.”
James Barton, co-founder and Board Member of Superstruct, added: “Roderik has been instrumental in shaping Superstruct’s journey over the past years. Working alongside and sharing this experience with him has been an honor. What we built together will be an everlasting testament to his vision and skills as a leader. I’m personally delighted that he will continue to contribute to the evolution of our story as a member of the Board, offering continuity, strategic insight, and deep knowledge of the business as we enter our next phase.”
Mahon commented: “I’ve long admired the energy, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit that defines Superstruct. It’s a rare kind of business – high-growth, multi-territory, and built by founders who truly understand how to create unforgettable live experiences. There’s a clear sense of purpose here: connecting people through culture, creativity, and the joy of shared moments. I’m genuinely excited to join this talented group of creative founders and business leaders to help shape what comes next – with communities, innovation, and emotion at the centre of it all.”
Mahon’s appointment comes as Superstruct continues to expand its global portfolio of live events and festivals, which span more than 80 festivals across Europe and beyond. Superstruct’s leadership team is underpinned by a deep bench of founders and entrepreneurial leaders who have built some of the most iconic festivals and live experiences around the world. This collective expertise, creative vision, and close connection to audiences continues to be a defining strength of the group and a key driver of its global success.
Mahon is expected to assume her new role in the autumn.
