Matt Brittin has been confirmed as the new Director General of the BBC after the resignation of Tim Davie.
The former President of Google EMEA will take over the role from Rhodri Talfan Davies, who takes on the position on an interim process from April 2.
Mr Brittin, 57, is a former McKinsey consultant who spent almost two decades at Google, becoming the company’s president in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, until he announced his decision to leave last year.
Mr Davie, who had been in the role since 2020, announced his resignation in November last year, alongside the chief executive of BBC News Deborah Turness, amid controversy over a Panorama edit of a speech by Donald Trump.
Having reportedly impressed the meeting held by BBC Chair Samir Shah last week, Mr Britten’s appointment has raised eyebrows, due to him having no direct experience of television or journalism
Mr Brittin said: “Now, more than ever, we need a thriving BBC that works for everyone in a complex, uncertain and fast changing world. 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.”
The chairwoman of the culture, media and sport (CMS) committee, Dame Caroline Dinenage, has said Mr Brittin “will have a significant job on his hands” in a “period of turbulence”.
Matt Brittin, pictured at an event in 2018, is the new Director General of the BBC
|
GETTYDame Caroline said: “I congratulate Matt Brittin on his appointment. The new director-general takes over at a pivotal moment in the history of the BBC.
“He will have a significant job on his hands navigating it out of a period of turbulence and through a charter review process that will define its purpose and standing beyond the next decade.
“While his experience in the world of big tech could be an advantage, Mr Brittin will have to quickly demonstrate a commitment to public service broadcasting and an understanding of the vital part it plays in our media landscape. He will also need to show that he can keep on top of maintaining editorial standards, which is vital for public trust in the BBC.
“The Committee looks forward to hearing about his vision for the future of our national broadcaster and will be keeping a close eye on his performance.”
Discover more from PressNewsAgency
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.