Channel 4 names David Brindley as Director of Programmes

Brindley joins from independent producer Twofour, where he is CEO and an Executive Producer. Brindley was previously a Commissioning Editor for Documentaries at Channel 4 and Head of Popular Factual and Factual Entertainment Commissioning at the BBC.

He will join the channel in January 2027 and will also become an Executive Member of the Channel 4 board.

Brindley will replace Ian Katz, who leaves later this month. His appointment comes as Channel 4 prepares to lay off around 340 staff, the biggest round of cuts in the broadcaster’s history.

Channel 4 will lose around 28% of its current 1,270 staff following a strategic review of the organisation. The broadcaster has faced a challenging few years as it competes with digital platforms and the shrinking advertising market for traditional TV networks.

His appointment completes Channel 4’s new commissioning leadership team, together with Louisa Compton, Director, News, Digital, Audience Trust, Channel 4.

Working alongside them, Kiran Nataraja, Director, Content Strategy, Channel 4, has responsibility for content strategy, portfolio planning, and acquisitions.

During his time at Twofour, Brindley has overseen a slate including The Reluctant Traveler with Eugene Levy (Apple TV), Educating Yorkshire (C4), Destination X (BBC/NBC), The Box (ITV), I Kissed A Boy, I Kissed A Girl (BBC), and Awkwafina: The Unlikely Cook (Apple TV).

Priya Dogra, Chief Executive, Channel 4, said: “As we reshape Channel 4 to invest more in distinctive British content and back creative talent across the UK, I wanted a Director of Programmes who would be able to take ambitious risks in programming and deliver powerful shows that make a cultural impact, while sustaining the bold attitude that has always been the calling card of Channel 4.” 

Brindley added: “The UK is home to the world’s best creatives, producers, and storytellers, nurtured in no small part by the strength of our public service broadcasters. I want Channel 4 to be the place where those creatives and producers feel trusted and free to do their most challenging, entertaining, and distinctive work.”

Channel 4 also recently promoted Barry John to Technology Director. Discover more here.