Alex Mahon

Alex’s diverse career began in science and as a kitchen porter before she transitioned into television production. She started her TV career at Talkback Thames and FremantleMedia, eventually leading various creative production companies aimed at growth and global expansion. Notably, she served as CEO of Shine Group, which produced hits like MasterChef and Broadchurch, and later led Foundry, an innovative visual effects software company pushing the boundaries of film and TV production.

At Channel 4, Alex has navigated numerous challenges, including adapting to changing audience demands and integrating new technologies, all while promoting diversity in the media workforce. With its unique public-private funding model, Channel 4 faces considerable scrutiny from the government, regulators, and the media. Under Alex’s leadership, the company has balanced creating innovative, provocative content with fulfilling its public service obligations. She has also focused on practical issues like enhancing the network’s regional presence and promoting talent diversity through initiatives such as 4Skills.

Alex has maintained Channel 4’s legacy as an independent, trailblazing organization both on and off screen. Her tenure has successfully combined traditional broadcasting with streaming platforms, and the programming continues to spark national conversations on topics like inclusion and social change. This commitment is also evident in Alex’s efforts to review and improve Channel 4’s policies to support employees dealing with menopause, fertility issues, or pregnancy loss, breaking long-standing corporate taboos.

In her leadership roles, Alex shares her experiences in change management, growth, innovation, crisis management, and authenticity. Drawing on extensive research into Gen Z, she explores how businesses can engage with this demographic as consumers and colleagues. She delves into nurturing creativity within an organisation and fostering a unique, open, and supportive culture. Additionally, she addresses the challenge of engaging a digital-first audience inundated with algorithm-driven content.

Alex’s extensive industry involvement includes chairing the Royal Television Society Programme Awards, serving as a Non-Executive Director of the Edinburgh International Television Festival, and participating in the DCMS Advisory Panel on the BBC and the UK Government Creative Industries Council. She is an ambassador for London Tech Week and a founding member of WITs END, a network dedicated to women’s development in the tech industry. Alex has received Variety’s International Achievement in Television Award and an International Royal Industrial Fellowship.

To book Keynote Speaker Alex Mahon, contact The Speakers Agency on +44(0)1332 810481 or email enquiries@thespeakersagency.com