Channel 4 is preparing to cut around 300 jobs, roughly a quarter of its workforce, in the largest round of layoffs in its 43-year history, as it seeks to sharply reduce costs amid a prolonged advertising downturn. New chief executive Priya Dogra, who succeeded Alex Mahon in March, is due to outline a wide-ranging review of the broadcaster's strategy and structure at an all-staff meeting on Wednesday, with London expected to be hit hardest despite a recent push to grow regional employment.

The state-owned but commercially funded broadcaster's headcount had swollen to 1,276 by 2025, and sources say savings targets equate to about 300 to 325 roles, surpassing the 200 cuts made by Mahon two years ago. Channel 4 posted a £10m pre-tax loss last year, its third consecutive annual deficit, with revenues down 1% to £1.03bn and cash reserves at their lowest in over 20 years. Dogra is also expected to shrink the commissioning slate in favour of fewer, better-funded hit shows, while the broadcaster has already tapped further government-backed credit to shore up its finances.