Channel 4 News to launch Leeds data and digital FactCheck unit as key editorial appointments are confirmed

Channel 4 News has today announced the promotion of Ciaran Jenkins to Data Correspondent and Presenter, based in Leeds and leading a vital new specialism for the flagship daily bulletin.

The announcement comes as the programme prepares to launch its brand new Leeds studio this Spring, making the city a focal point for data journalism and digital output as it increases the scope and ambition of its news coverage from across the UK.

Jenkins will step into a growing and dynamic editorial team in the new base working with the recently appointed Head of Regions Sunita Bhatti and Deputy Head of Home News Sally Chesworth, and alongside Communities Editor Darshna Soni.

At the heart of a distinct new editorial strand, Jenkins will drive a range of data-led output, taking full advantage of the new studio facilities and increasing the programme’s commitment to its award-winning multi-platform offer.

This growing digital unit and an enhanced presence for the Channel 4 News FactCheck team based in the city will focus on uncovering and unpacking some of the biggest stories from across the country. The FactCheck team will continue to be led by Senior FactCheck journalist Georgina Lee who recently gave evidence to the DCMS Committee in Parliament on Disinformation.

Jenkins joined Channel 4 News in 2012, soon becoming North of England Correspondent based in Manchester before moving to Glasgow in 2018 as Scotland Correspondent, covering an unprecedented period in Scottish and UK politics. He counts over eleven years with the programme, bringing his tenacious journalism to audiences on TV and online and has recently been presenting the evening bulletin at weekends from the programme’s London studio at Grays Inn Road.

Channel 4 News’ Editor, Esme Wren said:

“Since 2012, Ciaran has brought exceptional and insightful journalism to audiences from across the UK.  We are delighted that he will be a cornerstone of our new venture in Leeds, as we expand our data-led specialist unit in the city.

“With data increasingly at the heart of the fight for truth, and innovation in digital output central to engagement with young audiences, Ciaran will bring his vast experience and instinct for accessible reporting and presentation to this vital new role.”

Newly-appointed Data Correspondent and Presenter, Ciaran Jenkins said:

“Channel 4 News has big plans for its permanent studio currently under construction in Leeds and I am delighted to be taking up this new dual role at the heart of it.

Using data to better understand the world around us has long been a fascination of mine and I am excited to be leading our coverage in this important and evolving area. It is also a dream come true to be joining the presenting team of Channel 4 News. I am thrilled and can’t wait to get started.”

The launch of the brand new studio this Spring will serve as a reminder of the programme’s commitment to and investment in regional production, contributing significantly to the rapidly evolving local, cultural economy in the city.