Inspiration: Annual Lecture 2025 | England

The Marketing Society Annual Lecture is one of our most anticipated and prestigious events of the year where we welcome a prominent business leader to speak to members and guests about their life and career, sharing candid insights in an honest and open conversation.

We probe them on their thoughts about what makes a good marketing leader, the lessons their career journey as taught them, the challenges they have faced and what advice they would pass on to the next generation of marketers.

The Annual Lecture is renowned for featuring bold, high-profile leaders at the top of their game, previous speakers include, ITV’s Carolyn McCall, Gillette’s Gary Coombe, Sir Stuart Rose, Sir Dave Lewis, Sir Charlie Mayfield, Lord Puttnam, Paul Polman, Aviva’s Amanda Blanc and most recently Google’s Matt Brittin.

This event offers a rare and fascinating insight into the mind and driving force behind an exceptional leader, change maker and role model.

The Annual Lecture 2025 - Alex Mahon

Alex Mahon Channel 4’s first female CEO and under leadership, the business has transformed into a digital-first public media company with the UK’s biggest free streaming service and one of the largest social media brands for young people in the UK.

Prior to this her extraordinary career included CEO of leading global design and 3D effects software firm Foundry, 15 years running creative production companies and CEO of Shine Group.

Her extensive media experience includes roles at Talkback Thames, FremantleMedia Group and RTL Group.

A passionate supporter of the creative industries, Alex has held numerous positions including Chairman of the Royal Television Society Programme Awards, NED of the Edinburgh International Television Festival, and she is currently a member of the BBC’s DCMS Advisory Panel as well as the UK government Creative Industries Council.

An ardent advocate of diversity and inclusivity, Alex mentors underrepresented groups and is the founding member of WITs END, a women’s development network focused on the tech industry. She also launched Channel 4’s groundbreaking policies to support employees experiencing menopause or pregnancy loss.

With such extensive and varied leadership experience and interests, alongside the huge changes and challenges facing the television industry, we can expect a lively and fascinating event packed with insights and perspectives from this remarkable, business leader and change-maker.