LONDON, United Kingdom — Former Google executive Matt Brittin has been confirmed as the new Director General of the BBC, marking a major leadership shift at the British public broadcaster as it faces funding debates, digital disruption, and a review of its Royal Charter.
Brittin, 57, will replace Tim Davie, who announced his resignation in November following controversy over how a Panorama programme edited a speech by US President Donald Trump.
The appointment places a technology industry veteran at the helm of one of the world’s most influential public service media organisations.
BBC Chairman Samir Shah described Brittin as “an outstanding leader” capable of steering the broadcaster through structural and technological change. He said Brittin “brings to the BBC deep experience of leading a high-profile and highly complex organisation through transformation” at a time when the corporation must adapt to shifting audience behaviour and intensifying competition.
Brittin welcomed the appointment, calling it “a moment of real risk, yet also real opportunity” for the broadcaster. “The BBC needs the pace and energy to be both where stories are, and where audiences are,” he said, adding that the organisation must “confront challenges with courage, and thrive as a public service fit for the future.”
His arrival comes as the UK government reviews the BBC’s Royal Charter, which expires in 2027, alongside debates over the future of the licence fee funding model.
Shah said the broadcaster is at “a critical time,” adding that “the stakes for the BBC, and the future of public service broadcasting, have never been higher.”
However, former BBC Director General and current CNN chief executive Mark Thompson described the move as “a bold and interesting choice.” He noted that Brittin brings “skills and experiences to the job that no previous director general has had,” particularly in navigating digital transformation.
Brittin’s priorities are expected to include accelerating the BBC’s digital strategy, strengthening the iPlayer platform, and managing relationships with major technology companies.
The broadcaster is increasingly competing with global streaming platforms and digital-first media companies for audiences.
The new chief will also inherit ongoing legal and editorial challenges, including a multi-billion-dollar defamation lawsuit filed by Donald Trump over the editing of a January 6, 2021, speech in a Panorama programme.
The BBC has apologised for the editing but has asked a court to dismiss the case, arguing the programme did not air in the United States.
Brittin previously served as president of Google’s Europe, Middle East, and Africa operations after joining the company in 2007. He later became vice-president for Northern and Central Europe in 2011 before assuming the regional presidency in 2014. He left the technology giant in 2025 after an 18-year career.
Before joining Google, Brittin held senior roles at Trinity Mirror, focusing on commercial strategy and digital transformation. He also served briefly as a non-executive director at Guardian Media Group after leaving Google.
Born in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, Brittin studied at the University of Cambridge, where he rowed in the Boat Race three times and later won bronze for Great Britain at the 1989 World Rowing Championships. He later completed a master’s degree at London Business School.
He was awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2026 New Year Honours for services to technology and digital skills.
Brittin will assume office on May 18, earning £565,000 annually, the same salary as his predecessor. One of his first tasks will be appointing a deputy director general and leading negotiations with the government on the broadcaster’s future funding and strategic direction.
