Channel 4 News has confirmed that its plans to recruit a full-time permanent Leeds anchor have been put on hold.
Instead Ciaran Jenkins will take on a new dual role as Data Correspondent and Presenter based in Leeds.
Jenkins will be part of a new specialist unit for data journalism and digital output in the city.
He first joined the channel in 2012 as its Manchester-based North of England correspondent. For the last 5 years he’s been the Channel 4 News Scotland correspondent and has also presented the weekend Evening Bulletins.
In the new role he’ll be working with the recently appointed Head of Regions, Sunita Bhatti, Deputy Head of Home News Sally Chesworth, and Communities Editor Darshna Soni.
“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,” said Channel 4 News’ Editor, Esme Wren.
“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.”
His role will be create a range of data-led output and increase the programme’s multi-platform offering.
Channel 4 News’ FactCheck team based in the city will focus on uncovering “and unpacking” some of the biggest stories from across the country. FactCheck will continue to be led by Senior FactCheck journalist Georgina Lee.
“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,” added Jenkins.
“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 studio is due to be launched this Spring.
When asked about future plans for a full-time Leeds presenter, a spokesperson for Channel 4 News told Prolific North:
“As we continue to grow this dynamic new newsroom, we will work flexibly with our presenting team, including keeping options open for future permanent positions.”
Channel 4 said that its current presenter roster of Jackie Long, Cathy Newman, Matt Frei and Fatima Manji would also present regularly from Leeds.
