Alex Mahon will succeed David Abraham as the chief executive of Channel 4.
Mahon, former CEO of Shine Group, will become the channel’s first female chief executive. She has most recently been CEO of effects company Foundry.
Abraham announced his decision to leave the broadcaster in March.
Mahon is expected to start in October or November and will be involved with the appointment of chief creative officer Jay Hunt’s successor. Hunt announced her departure on Friday.
Charles Gurassa, Channel 4’s Chair said: “Alex is an outstanding leader and a highly experienced CEO who has developed and grown major international businesses in both the creative and technology sectors.
“She brings an impressive combination of relevant experience and is brilliantly placed to help steer Channel 4 through the competitive challenges and opportunities ahead.
“She is a great enthusiast for Channel 4 and its unique public service remit and her recent work with government will be valuable in facilitating constructive dialogue with the new administration.”
Mahon said: “Channel 4’s unique remit to innovate and to appeal to young and diverse audiences make it an essential part of British culture. There is nowhere in the world like Channel 4 and, in these changing times, its mission is more important than ever.
I’m incredibly proud to be joining Channel 4 and bring to it experience both of leading creative organisations at scale and dealing with an environment of constant technological change.”
