Channel 4

Non-Executive Directors

Job Reference QAYZF
Closing Date Monday 16 Aug 2021

Channel 4 is a publicly owned and commercially funded UK public service broadcaster, with a statutory remit to deliver high-quality, innovative, alternative content that challenges the status quo.

Ofcom is responsible for appointing non-executive directors to the Channel Four Television Corporation (C4C) Board, subject to the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport’s approval, and is seeking to appoint three Non-Executive Directors. The appointees need to be of the calibre and experience to fit with the current skills mix of C4C Board members. The successful candidates will demonstrate strategic thinking, vision, and exceptional interpersonal skills, with a good understanding of the importance of strong governance.

Following our previous advertising campaign for these roles, and in the light of the UK Government’s current consideration of possible changes to the operating model of Channel 4, including its ownership and its remit and obligations, we also now invite all candidates to indicate if they have experience of having led or been part of a board stewarding a business through a significant corporate transaction.

Role 1: Current & Media Affairs NED
Essential
 In-depth insight and perspective on issues relating to news and current affairs at Board level, helping inform and shape Board responses to the significant developments and challenges in an evolving news landscape;
 Clear knowledge and understanding of contemporary issues arising in the industry and reactions to them;
 In-depth experience of UK broadcasting content regulation;
 Digital experience and an understanding of the changes in media consumption in the digital age;
 Bring a diversity of views and opinions to help ensure Channel 4 and its output are truly reflective of attitudes and values across the country.

Desirable
 Understanding and support for Channel 4’s remit and role within the Public Service Broadcasting system, as well as how it can remain sustainable and relevant in a rapidly evolving broadcasting and media market;

Relevant skillsets include:
News/Journalism; Broadcasting; Regulation; Legal, Government/Parliament; Social Enterprise/Not for profit; Arts/Creative Leadership

Role 2: Digital Development and Advertising NED
Essential
 A digital expert with experience in a global media environment;
 A digital thought leader who understands how to engage with audiences online and who can bring contemporary understanding of how broadcasting consumption is changing – particularly amongst younger audiences;
 In-depth knowledge and experience of the UK advertising market (including digital and linear advertising) and understanding of how advertising is changing in the digital age;
 In-depth insight and perspective on issues relating to advertising sales and social media, helping inform and shape Board responses to the significant developments and challenges in an evolving digital landscape;
 Bring a diversity of views and opinions to help ensure Channel 4 and its output are truly reflective of attitudes and values across the country.

Desirable
 Knowledge of the media and creative or digital industries, that are relevant to the markets in which Channel 4 operates;
 Understanding and support for Channel 4’s remit and role within the Public Service Broadcasting system, as well as how it can remain sustainable and relevant in a rapidly evolving broadcasting and media market;
 A strong understanding of digital tools and techniques (e.g. audience engagement and website optimisation);

Relevant skillsets include:
Senior Leadership in a Digital role; Advertising; Commercial Experience; Engagement of Young/Diverse Audiences, Creative & Analytical Leadership

Role 3: Finance/ Strategy NED
Essential
 Experience in financial and/or strategic roles, gained at a senior level;
 Experienced Board director able to provide a robust and appropriate level of scrutiny and challenge for the Channel 4 executive team and other Board Members;
 Bring a diversity of views and opinions to help ensure Channel 4 and its output are truly reflective of attitudes and values across the country;
 Clear ability to contribute to conversations around pay and rewards and be an effective member of the Remuneration Committee.

Desirable
 Experience of managing an organisation through structural market changes;
 Experience in a large complex corporate environment or leading international consultancy practice;
 Experience in the media and creative or digital industries, that are relevant to the markets in which Channel 4 operates;
 Understanding and support for Channel 4’s remit and role within the Public Service Broadcasting system, as well as how it can remain sustainable and relevant in a rapidly evolving broadcasting and media market;
 Experience in the creative sector with the confidence to challenge the status quo, lead radical change, identify, and understand both audience and organisational need and ensure resources are targeted effectively to meet those needs.

Relevant skillsets include:
Finance Director/Accountancy Qualifications/Audit & Risk Management; Investment; Advertising; Data/CRM/Systems/Digital; Corporate Strategy; Commissioning; Technology; Film; CFO experience

The Government and Ofcom are committed to diversity and to providing equal opportunities for all, irrespective of race, age, disability, gender, marital status, religion, sexual orientation, and working patterns, and to the principle of public appointments on merit with independent assessments, openness, and transparency of process.

This recruitment will be conducted in accordance with the Disability Confident Scheme. If you require an adjustment at any stage of the recruitment process, email annabel.fish@saxbam.com.

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to Ofcom on these appointments. For further information about the roles, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference QAYZF. Alternatively telephone +44 (0)20 7227 0880 (during office hours). Applications should be received by noon on Monday 16 August 2021.