Alex Mahon is the Chief Executive of Channel 4. Channel 4 is a publicly owned and commercially funded public service media organisation that exists to create change through entertainment, and generates significant cultural, economic and social impact across the UK.

Under Alex’s leadership, Channel 4 has transformed into a digital-first public media company with the UK’s biggest free streaming service and one of the largest social media brands for young people in the UK. During this period, Channel 4’s public ownership has been secured, its impact across the nations and regions has grown, and its investment in skills has opened up the sector to those aspiring to a career in television and film. At the same time, Channel 4 has continued to deliver an outstanding slate of shows and films. In 2023, the organisation achieved its best performance in 22 years at the TV BAFTAs, while Film 4-backed films won 4 BAFTAs, two major prizes at Cannes, including the Grand Prix, and the Golden Lion at Venice.

Alex is a passionate supporter of equitable representation and is committed to championing women’s health at work. This led to Channel 4 launching the UK media industry’s first menopause and pregnancy loss policies, which have been adopted by companies worldwide.

Alex has a deep background in the creative and technology industries. Prior to Channel 4, she was CEO of Foundry, the leading 3D effects software firm and, before that, she was CEO of Shine Group, which during her tenure grew into an organisation with 27 creative labels in 12 countries. She has also worked at Talkback Thames, Fremantle Media Group and RTL Group. Alex started her career as a PhD Physicist with a stint at CERN before moving into launching internet businesses.

Alex is currently a member of the UK Creative Industries Council and an ambassador for London Tech Week. She is a Non-Executive Board Member of Chanel Inc and has been on the Advisory Board of Salesforce.

In 2023, she chaired the Royal Television Society Cambridge Convention. She was the recipient of Variety’s 2020 International Achievement in Television Award and has been honoured with an International Royal Industrial Fellowship.