The future of public service broadcasting will take centre stage in the North West this May, as the recently appointed leader of one of the UK’s most influential media organisations makes her debut public address.
The Creative Cities Convention has announced that Priya Dogra, CEO of Channel 4, will appear on Day One at this year’s event.
This marks her first public speaking engagement since taking up the role in March 2026.
Dogra will take part in a fireside chat-style conversation in Liverpool on 6 and 7 May, offering delegates an early opportunity to hear her thinking on the future of Channel 4 and the wider public service broadcasting landscape.
Priya Dogra said:
“I am delighted to be joining this year’s Creative Cities Convention in Liverpool.
“It’s a brilliant opportunity to share my early thoughts on Channel 4 and reinforce our support for creativity across the UK, as well as our vital role as a public service broadcaster in a rapidly changing world.”
Industry Heavyweights Gather in the Baltic Triangle
Dogra joins a roster of high-profile speakers that includes Sir Phil Redmond, Oscar-winning director Asif Kapadia, Jimmy McGovern, Quay Street Productions Chief Executive Nicola Shindler, and Jimmy Mulville of Hat Trick Productions.
The conversation will be chaired by Hannah Cheers, Executive Producer at Lime Pictures.
With a strong connection to Liverpool, Cheers is well-placed to lead the discussion on regional production and the next generation of creatives.
Hannah Cheers said:
“It’s a privilege to chair the conversation with Priya around the vital role that Channel 4 provides to our region and beyond.
“Lime Pictures based in Liverpool has always focused on championing bold, contemporary storytelling from the regions.
“Hosting the Creative Cities Convention here this year not only celebrates that but also creates real opportunities to shape the next chapter of regional production and the next generation of creatives.”
The 2026 convention will be staged at Camp and Furnace, located in the heart of the Baltic Triangle.
This thriving creative hub is known for its independent studios and innovative businesses, providing a fitting backdrop for this year’s theme: Where TV Meets Digital.
The sessions will explore how traditional storytelling and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and cross-platform production are converging to shape the future of the screen industries.
Developing the Next Generation of Talent
Following the success of last year’s event in Bradford, the Skills Summit will return in Liverpool for 2026.
Targeted at freelancers and emerging creatives, the summit will feature practical sessions and workshops led by leading industry names.
The venue for the Skills Summit is Boxpark, located in the historic Canning Hall as part of the Cains Brewery Village.
Founded in 2018, the Creative Cities Convention is led by Executive Director Lisa Campbell and is backed by major industry players including the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Paramount, and PACT.
Previous host cities have included Leeds, Cardiff, Glasgow, and Newcastle, highlighting the convention’s commitment to supporting creative hubs across the entirety of the UK.
