The heavyweight contenders for Channel 4's top job as Grade bows out
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.MELVYN BRAGG
Controller of arts for LWT and edits and presents the South Bank Show. A senior figure in the industry who has cornered the market in arts television; would be helpful in the channel's quest to create a reputation for arts coverage but may not be considered enough of an all-rounder.
DAVID ELSTEIN
Elstein dismisses speculation that he is ruing his decision to leave BSkyB for Channel 5 four months ago. He said yesterday he is more interested in new ventures than old ones. Ruling himself out on the basis that Channel 5 is not even launched yet, he adds that John Willis is `excellent' internal candidate.
MICHAEL JACKSON
The wonderboy of broadcasting, Jackson turned BBC2 around before being promoted to BBC1; he may be doing too well at the BBC to want to move on. He would be good news for Channel 4; has an unerring ability to spot winning programmes but would nurture the channel's quirky character and reputation for film.
BOB PHILLIS
Has the business experience required to run Channel 4, he is chief executive of Worldwide, the BBC's international and commercial arm, and deputy director- general. Has a good political sense and is an able negotiator who would like to break out from what Grade called the new `pseudo-Leninist style' of the BBC.
JOHN WILLIS
John Willis has been running the programme side of Channel 4 since being moved up from deputy director of programmes in 1993. Certain to apply but will be keen to keep hands-on responsibility for programming. His promotion would go down well with staff, who think he deserves it.
ALAN YENTOB
Unhappy after being effectively demoted by John Birt last year in his shake-up of the BBC. But some doubt his ability to translate from the public to the commercial broadcasting sector. While he is applauded for his creativeness, he may not be best suited to a more corporate and financial role.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments