Channel 4 is preparing to cut approximately 300 jobs, representing about a quarter of its workforce, in what would be the largest round of layoffs in the broadcaster’s 43-year history. The job reductions come amid ongoing financial challenges, including declining advertising revenues and reduced cash reserves.

The broadcaster employed 1,276 staff by last year, following an expansion across the UK. The planned cuts are part of a broader strategic and structural review initiated by Priya Dogra, who took over as chief executive in March. Dogra is expected to address the staff regarding the changes in a meeting scheduled for Wednesday. Sources indicate that the number of roles to be cut could reach up to 325, with London-based jobs likely to be the main focus, following Channel 4’s earlier commitment to increase positions outside the capital in the nations and regions.

This announcement follows previous cost-cutting efforts; two years ago, under former chief executive Alex Mahon, the broadcaster cut around 200 jobs during the worst downturn in TV advertising since 2008. The current cuts come as advertising revenues remain under pressure, a situation exacerbated by competition from digital platforms such as YouTube, which capture a growing share of advertising budgets. Advertising still accounts for about 90% of Channel 4’s total revenues, making it particularly vulnerable to market fluctuations.

Channel 4 has reported a pre-tax loss for the third consecutive year, with losses of £10 million in 2025, following £12 million in 2024 and a record £52 million in 2023. Revenue declined slightly last year to £1.03 billion, with a 2% drop in advertising income—although the broadcaster’s performance still surpassed the wider market downturn. Cash reserves have also dwindled, falling by £69 million to £49 million by the end of last year, marking their lowest levels in more than two decades.

In response to these financial pressures, Channel 4 has secured government approval to access £75 million immediately from a £150 million revolving credit facility, with the possibility of tapping the remaining half subject to further government consent. This credit line is intended to maintain liquidity and manage risks amid a challenging economic and geopolitical environment.

Alongside the job cuts, Dogra is anticipated to implement changes to Channel 4’s content and commissioning operations. Last year, the broadcaster operated with a £640 million programming budget, of which £480 million was spent on original British content. Reports suggest that Dogra aims to reduce the volume of commissioned shows as part of efforts to streamline costs.

The broadcaster’s commercial, creative, and operational departments currently employ hundreds of full-time staff, and leadership roles are also undergoing changes. The new director of programmes position, created after the departure of chief content officer Ian Katz, is currently undergoing a recruitment process, with Dogra conducting initial interviews this week.

Channel 4 has committed to communicating transparently and promptly with staff throughout the restructuring process, emphasizing an approach that prioritizes internal updates before public announcements.