Let's Turn It On: A Day to Remember for Channel 4 Sales

When Rak Patel, our Commercial Revenue Officer, teased an away day for the team, no one quite knew what to expect. Maybe a few talks, some team bonding…certainly not being whisked off to Manchester, checked into a swanky Marriott hotel, and treated to a day full of surprises, dancing, and Melvin Odoom on the decks.

After excitedly dropping our bags, we made our way to Freight Island, where the sun was shining and the vibes were high. Armed with food tokens, we explored the buzzing venue and tucked into an array of global cuisines before settling in outside to soak up the sun. The air was filled with anticipation, none of us knew what was coming, but the energy was electric.

Shortly after we called to our seats where dancers took the stage, and the disco ball caught the light, and just like that, we were off. Enter Rak and the Rakquettes, opening the show with a full-blown dance number that no one saw coming (and yes, it was definitely caught on camera). A memorable way to kick off Let’s Turn It On.

Once Rak had a chance to catch his breath, he shifted gears to share important business updates,  but not before welcoming none other than Channel 4 CEO, Alex Mahon, to the stage. The session opened with a light-hearted round of this or that questions, setting the tone for an engaging and insightful conversation. Alex shared her thoughts on how Channel 4 Sales have been performing and what’s on the horizon for the business, giving the team a clear sense of direction and purpose for the months ahead.

Just as we started to settle into business mode, the surprises kept coming: sports broadcaster Jules Breach and footballing legend Gary Neville joined the stage. While some of the team were visibly starstruck, Gary delivered powerful reflections on leadership and his journey beyond the pitch — a timely and motivating message for us all.

Next up was a creative twist on The Lateish Show, as newly appointed Head of Sales Strategy Sam Hicks and Chief Marketing Officer Katie Jackson hosted a candid and entertaining conversation. We got a rare glimpse into the mind of a CMO and discovered a few secrets behind what makes Katie tick (classified, of course).

It wouldn’t be a Channel 4 event without a sneak peek at our upcoming slate, Chief Content Officer Ian Katz, joined by Chief Operating Officer Jonathan Allan, delivered a preview that reminded us exactly why Channel 4 is Altogether Different.

After a well-earned tea break and sweet treat, we returned to find Rak now suited and booted in black tie, ready to present the very first Rak Awards. As the stage filled with awards show glamour, we were joined by none other than Lucinda Light, who helped hand out trophies to celebrate stand-out achievements across the Channel 4 Sales team. A moment of genuine recognition, laughter, and applause.

The day wound down but the party was far from over. After checking into our plush hotel rooms (and yes, enjoying a quick robe-and-slippers moment), we headed to Side Street for the official after party. With food, drinks, entertainment, and Melvin Odoom on the decks, the celebrations continued long into the night.

A massive thank you to Rak and everyone involved in putting on such a memorable experience. We left Manchester inspired, energised, and ready to Turn It On.