Channel 4 confirms new Head of Diversity

Channel 4 has announced the appointment of former MP Oona King as its new Head of Diversity.

Channel 4 announced that it would recruit a head of diversity when it launched its Next on 4 initiative last year. King’s brief will include championing diversity on and off screen. She will report directly to Channel 4 chief executive Andy Duncan.

Her responsibilities will include working with external suppliers to ensure that similar standards and policies are applied across all production and business activities on behalf of Channel 4.

Andy Duncan added: “Oona has an impressive mix of experience. Her appointment signals our ambition to take the lead in helping broadcasting better reflect the diversity of modern Britain.

“I’m very hopeful that she can play a pivotal role in improving portrayal, attitudes and working practice not just at Channel 4 but right across the industry.”

King said: “Channel 4 has been an amazing platform for diverse voices and perspectives from across British society for more than a quarter of a century.

“But there’s more work to be done to connect and reflect social minorities within mainstream broadcasting, and I’m very much looking forward to this challenge.”