Emma Baker – The Inspiring Journey of ITV Anglia’s Head of News
Emma Baker is a prominent British journalist, broadcaster, and media trainer best known as the Head of News at ITV Anglia. With an exceptional career spanning two decades across various ITV regions, she has become one of the most respected figures in regional television journalism. Combining her linguistic background, editorial leadership, and strong public communication skills, Emma represents a modern and versatile face of British broadcasting.
This article explores Emma Baker’s career journey, achievements, education, personal life, and her invaluable contribution to journalism and public communication in the United Kingdom.
Early Life and Education of Emma Baker
Emma Baker was born in the United Kingdom in 1980, making her around 45 years old as of 2025. She showed early promise in communication and languages, which led her to pursue a degree in Modern Languages (French and German) at the prestigious University of Cambridge, graduating in 2004.
Her fascination with storytelling and global communication later inspired her to study Broadcast Journalism at City, University of London, where she completed her Postgraduate Diploma. This academic foundation equipped her with critical thinking, research, and presentation skills that would become essential throughout her broadcasting career.
Early Career in Journalism
Emma Baker’s journalism career began in the early 2000s, where she worked as a freelance journalist in Paris for BBC News and The Independent. During this period, she developed a deep understanding of European politics, culture, and language — experiences that enriched her storytelling and gave her a distinctive international outlook.
She later joined BBC Newsnight in London as a freelance journalist, further honing her ability to report complex stories with accuracy and empathy. These formative years built a strong foundation for her later success in British television journalism.
Joining ITV – The Beginning of a Remarkable Journey
In June 2005, Emma joined ITV as a Trainee Journalist based in London. Her talent, clarity, and professionalism quickly made her stand out. From early reporting assignments to live presenting, she demonstrated confidence and versatility both in front of and behind the camera.
By 2006, she had become a Production Journalist, Reporter, and Presenter in Norwich and Cambridge, producing compelling regional news stories that resonated with local audiences. Her ability to combine factual reporting with human connection became a hallmark of her broadcasting style.
Rise Through ITV’s Regional Newsrooms
Emma Baker’s growth within ITV has been steady, inspiring, and marked by dedication. Over the years, she held several key positions across different ITV regions, gaining experience in varied editorial and cultural settings.
ITV Anglia (2008–2012)
As a Correspondent at ITV Anglia, Emma covered a wide range of stories across East England, building her reputation for balanced and insightful reporting. Her natural on-screen presence and journalistic integrity helped her become a trusted voice among viewers.
ITV News Anglia (2012–2013)
In 2012, she became Co-presenter of the flagship ITV News Anglia at 6pm. Her partnership with fellow presenters and her calm, professional delivery earned her strong viewer recognition across the region.
ITV Border (2013–2018)
Emma’s next chapter took her to Scotland, where she worked as a Reporter and Presenter for ITV’s Border Life, a weekly current affairs programme. For nearly five years, she produced in-depth reports on community, culture, and politics, highlighting local voices and stories that reflected everyday life in the Scottish Borders.
ITV Channel Islands (2018–2020)
In 2018, Emma moved to the Channel Islands to present the region’s flagship 6pm ITV News. She also served as Features Editor, guiding younger journalists and managing editorial content.
During this period, she and her family — her husband Matt and daughter Izzy — settled in Jersey, which she described fondly in her ITV blog “Saying goodbye to Jersey”. Her reflections showed not only her professional commitment but also her deep appreciation for community, nature, and family life.
A New Chapter – Leadership at ITV Anglia
In October 2022, Emma Baker was appointed Head of News at ITV Anglia, marking a significant milestone in her career. With more than 15 years of experience at ITV, her promotion recognised her leadership, editorial judgement, and ability to mentor others.
In her current role, Emma oversees the entire news operation for East England, managing teams of reporters, producers, and presenters. She ensures that ITV Anglia continues to deliver high-quality, trusted regional news that reflects the lives and stories of local communities.
Her leadership style is collaborative, inclusive, and forward-thinking — encouraging innovation while upholding the journalistic integrity that ITV is known for.
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Media Training
Between January 2021 and September 2022, Emma ran her own training and communications business under her website emma-baker.com.
In this self-employed role, she worked with a range of clients — from large institutions such as the University of Cambridge to smaller businesses and charities — helping them develop communication strategies, media presentation skills, and event facilitation techniques.
She hosted national conferences, led workshops, and trained professionals in public speaking and storytelling. This venture demonstrated her passion for empowering others to communicate confidently and authentically.
Emma Baker’s Strengths and Professional Values
Emma Baker’s success can be attributed to her professionalism, empathy, and adaptability. She brings together three vital qualities that define modern journalism:
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Integrity – Her reporting and leadership emphasise accuracy, fairness, and trustworthiness.
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Empathy – Whether covering sensitive stories or mentoring colleagues, she approaches people with compassion and respect.
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Versatility – From television to training, she seamlessly transitions between roles that require creativity, analysis, and leadership.
Her bilingual background in French and German also adds depth to her communication skills, enabling her to connect with diverse audiences and international perspectives.
Personal Life – Family and Inspiration
Away from the newsroom, Emma Baker values family, travel, and nature. She is married to Matt, and together they have a daughter named Izzy. The family lived in Jersey from 2018 to 2020, where Emma often shared how much the island became part of their hearts.
In her heartfelt farewell post, she wrote about island life, community spirit, and the challenges of working through the pandemic. Her reflections revealed a grounded and appreciative personality — one who balances a demanding career with family life and gratitude for simple moments.
Emma Baker on Social Media
Emma is active on X (formerly Twitter) under the handle @emmabakerTV, where she shares updates about news coverage, behind-the-scenes moments, and reflections on media work. Her tone online mirrors her on-screen persona — professional, warm, and thoughtful.
She has around 2,700 followers and follows over 2,200 accounts, reflecting her engagement with the wider journalistic community and audiences across the UK.
Emma Baker’s Legacy in Regional Journalism
Emma Baker’s journey illustrates the importance of regional news in shaping national understanding. As many local stations face funding and staffing challenges, her work underscores the value of community-centred reporting that keeps citizens informed and connected.
Through her editorial direction, ITV Anglia continues to cover stories that matter — from local governance and education to environmental issues and human-interest features. Her leadership helps maintain the credibility and trust that regional news enjoys among its audiences.
Conclusion: A Role Model in Modern British Media
Emma Baker embodies the professionalism, adaptability, and empathy that define great journalism. From her early freelance work in Paris to her leadership role at ITV Anglia, she has built a career rooted in authenticity, public service, and communication excellence.
Her story is one of growth — a testament to perseverance, skill, and passion for storytelling. As Head of News at ITV Anglia, Emma Baker continues to inspire journalists and viewers alike, proving that regional broadcasting remains at the heart of British journalism.
FAQs
1. Who is Emma Baker?
Emma Baker is a British journalist, broadcaster, and media trainer. She currently serves as the Head of News at ITV Anglia, leading news coverage across East England.
2. How old is Emma Baker?
Emma Baker was born in 1980, which makes her approximately 45 years old in 2025.
3. Who is Emma Baker’s husband?
Emma Baker is married to Matt, as mentioned in her ITV Channel blog “Saying goodbye to Jersey”. The couple have one daughter named Izzy.
4. What is Emma Baker’s educational background?
She studied Modern Languages (French and German) at the University of Cambridge and later completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Broadcast Journalism at City, University of London.
5. What are Emma Baker’s notable achievements?
Emma has worked across multiple ITV regions, including Anglia, Border, and Channel Islands, before becoming Head of News in 2022. She is widely respected for her leadership, communication skills, and commitment to accurate, community-centred journalism.
