Channel 4 Chief Content Officer Ian Katz is stepping down after nine years
Ian Katz, Channel 4’s longest-serving Chief Content Officer, is stepping down from his role after almost nine years. Katz will leave this role in October.
During his tenure, Katz played an integral role in Channel 4’s transformation from a linear network to a streaming service. Under his watch, streaming increased from 20% to 50% of all viewing on Channel 4. He has also overseen a critically acclaimed programme, including favorites such as ‘Taskmaster’ – which brought Katz to the broadcaster – ‘Gogglebox’ and ‘The Great British Bake Off’, as well as recent hits such as ‘Virgin Island’, ‘Dirty Business’ and ‘A Woman of Substance’.
Other highlights from Katz’s Channel 4 appearance include Russell T Davies’ historical drama ‘It’s a Sin’, James Graham’s ‘Brexit: The Uncivil War’, Jack Thorne’s COVID drama ‘Help’ and hit comedies ‘Big Boys’, ‘We Are Lady Parts’ and ‘Mitchell & Webb Are Not Helping’. Channel 4’s upcoming drama series, led by Katz, includes Davies’ latest TV outing “Tip Toe,” starring Alan Cumming and David Morrissey.
Channel 4 CEO Priya Dogra said in a statement: “Ian has been an outstanding creative leader for Channel 4 for almost nine years – the channel’s longest-serving head of programming. He has overseen an era of creative innovation, delivering bold and distinctive public programming with intellectual rigor, good humor and an unmistakable Channel 4 glint in the eye. He will be greatly missed, but I am delighted that he will remain with us for several more months and continue to lead our creative output, making decisions and executing the 2026 list.”
“It has been an indescribable privilege to lead Channel 4’s talented and passionate commissioning team through such a transformative period,” said Katz. “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved, from pioneering the evolution from a commercial public service broadcaster to a digital streaming company, to supporting groundbreaking programs and talent that have brought a little joy into audiences’ lives. Most of all, I’m proud that Channel 4 has remained as disruptive and unapologetic as ever, asking questions and telling stories that other broadcasters and streamers won’t tell. The channel’s 2026 program is stronger than ever, and I’m watching Looking forward to seeing continued success under Priya’s leadership.”
