Channel 4 Hires Creative Leader from Dubai’s SB Media Group to Oversee Digital Studio
Alex Morris Joins Channel 4 as Head of 4Studio
Alex Morris, previously at the helm of SB Media Group’s Dubai studio, has been appointed to lead Channel 4’s content creator and influencer initiatives. This marks a significant step in Channel 4’s strategy to enhance its digital presence and engage younger audiences.
Morris succeeds Matt Risley as the head of 4Studio and is the first addition to the team since the announcement of Priya Dogra, former CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery Europe, as Channel 4’s new CEO.
Over the past two years, Morris has been integral to the growth of SB Media Group, an automotive studio founded by Alex Hirschi, known for its automotive content. His leadership saw a notable expansion from Dubai and Boston into Europe. Previously, he also managed Ladstudios and held roles at Barcroft Studios over a 15-year career.
4Studio has gained prominence as Channel 4 shifts its focus toward digital growth and creating content tailored for younger viewers on social media platforms. The studio collaborates with prominent figures such as Chloe Burrows, Nella Rose, and Chunkz. Following Risley’s departure, 4Studio has been in the process of rebuilding, after also losing commissioning head Sacha Khari to the National Theatre and Sony. Laura Marks has stepped into the role vacated by Khari, while Alex Armstrong and Janine Smith have been managing the studio on an interim basis.
Beginning in January, Morris will report temporarily to Ruth Brougham, Channel 4’s Streaming Business Director. Brougham emphasized the significance of this hire, stating, “This is a critical hire for us and one that underscores the importance of 4Studio in helping to deliver our Fast Forward strategy. I’d like to thank Alex Armstrong and Janine Smith for all that they’ve done to lead the team during their time as interim Managing Directors of 4Studio.”
Morris’s start date will precede Dogra’s arrival, who will transition into her role at a pivotal moment for Channel 4, particularly with programming like Gogglebox.
