The BBC has confirmed former Google EMEA president Matt Brittin will be its 18th director general and editor-in-chief.
The 57-year-old will begin his tenure on May 18, with Rhodri Talfan Davies serving as interim director general with full executive responsibility following Tim Davie’s departure on April 2.
During this period, Brittin will begin detailed introductory meetings. The corporation confirmed a key priority will be the appointment of a deputy director general.
BBC chair Samir Shah asserted late last year the recruitment process would be conducted with the view to appointing a second in command who is “laser-focused” on journalism, saying the director general role is “too big for one person”.
He will also need to recruit a director of news following Deborah Turness’ resignation following the Panorama Trump controversy.
“Matt brings to the BBC deep experience of leading a high-profile and highly complex organisation through transformation,” said Shah. ”He is an outstanding leader and has the skills needed to navigate the organisation through the many changes taking place in the media market and in audience behaviours.
“Matt’s passion for the BBC, his understanding of the challenges facing the organisation, his commitment to its independence and his determination to maintain the BBC’s position as one of the country’s greatest national assets were critical factors in the board’s decision.”
He added it is a “critical” time for the BBC as the government’s review of the charter is underway.
“The stakes for the BBC, and the future of public service broadcasting, have never been higher. The board and I believe Matt is the right person to lead the BBC as it fights for a sustainable future in an uncertain world, for the benefit of audiences and the UK,” Shah added.
“Now, more than ever, we need a thriving BBC that works for everyone in a complex, uncertain and fast-changing world,” said Brittin. ”At its best, it shows us, and the world, who we are. It’s an extraordinary, uniquely British asset, with over 100 years of innovation in storytelling, technology and powering creativity.
“I’m honoured and excited to be asked to serve as director general.
“This is a moment of real risk, yet also real opportunity. The BBC needs the pace and energy to be both where stories are, and where audiences are. To build on the reach, trust and creative strengths today, confront challenges with courage, and thrive as a public service fit for the future. I can’t wait to start this work.”
Brittin worked for two decades at Google until his departure in late 2024. He has spent the past year on what he called a “mini gap year” and also sitting on the board of Guardian Media Group.
While much of the discourse around the executive has pointed to his lack of broadcasting experience, many have talked up his digital expertise as the BBC increasingly embraces platforms like YouTube to engage younger audiences, and his experience representing a massive organisation to government as the BBC enters charter review.
Brittin was named as the surprise frontrunner for the role last month. This story first appeared on Screen’s sister site Broadcast.
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