Keith Underwood

Keith Underwood is the Chief Financial and Operating Officer (CFO & COO) at The Guardian, a position he has held since June 2020. In this role, he is responsible for financial stewardship, operational performance, and shaping the strategic direction of the organization. Underwood also served as the interim CEO of The Guardian from June 2021 to September 2022.12

Professional Background

Underwood has over 20 years of experience in the media industry, including significant roles at Channel 4, where he was the CFO and COO prior to joining The Guardian. His career also includes positions at Discovery Networks and PwC Consulting.12 He is a board member of Digital Catapult, an organization focused on advancing digital technology innovation in the UK, and has held various board positions in other media-related organizations.14

Key Contributions

Underwood has been instrumental in The Guardian's efforts to diversify revenue streams, particularly through digital transformation initiatives. He has emphasized the importance of adapting to market pressures by exploring new formats and partnerships to enhance audience engagement and revenue generation.35 Under his leadership, The Guardian has seen a shift towards a more reader-funded model, with significant growth in digital revenues.3

Education and Credentials

He is a Chartered Accountant, certified by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), which underscores his financial expertise.1

Underwood's strategic vision continues to shape The Guardian's approach to navigating challenges in the media landscape while fostering innovation and growth.