Channel 4 announces two senior appointments to its Digital Content Unit

8 January 2020

Channel 4 today announced two key appointments to its Digital Content Unit.

Janine Smith, previously ITV’s Head of Digital Entertainment, has joined Channel 4 as its new Digital Content Director. And Laura Marks, previously Nations and Regions Executive at Channel 4, takes on the role of Digital Content Commissioner.

Janine and Laura are the latest senior hires of Channel 4’s Digital Content Unit (working title) which will ensure Channel 4 engages and influences young audiences in the places they are increasingly spending more time. The DCU will develop content that is either tailored or specifically created to maximise reach and viewing across key social media channels.

Matt Risley, Head of the DCU, said: “Janine is an award-winning director with a proven track record in leading and executing industry-leading content campaigns, and I’m delighted she’s joined our team.”

“Laura has a wealth of experience in commissioning original multiplatform content in comedy and entertainment which is going to be invaluable to the DCU.”

Working closely with Matt, Janine will lead the DCU’s content and delivery teams ensuring Channel 4’s social output is at the forefront of the digital landscape. Based at the national HQ in Leeds she will also lead the recruitment drive to find the creatives for the DCU and oversee delivery of Channel 4’s cross-platform strategy and branded content campaigns.

Laura will be the DCU’s digital commissioner based in Glasgow and work closely with the Channel 4 commissioning team to help commission and produce the broadcaster’s social slate of original programming and branded content series.