BBC Names Former Google EMEA Chief Matt Brittin as New Director General
The BBC has appointed Matt Brittin, the former chief of Google EMEA, as its new director general, marking a significant shift from traditional broadcasting leadership to one rooted in big tech. This decision was confirmed on Wednesday, following weeks of speculation.
Brittin will officially assume his role on May 18, with an annual salary of £565,000 ($756,000), an increase from his predecessor Tim Davie’s compensation, which was nearly £545,000.
BBC Chair Samir Shah praised Brittin’s extensive experience in leading complex organizations through transformative periods. “He is an outstanding leader and has the skills needed to navigate the many changes taking place in the media market and in audience behaviours,” Shah stated. He added that Brittin’s passion for the BBC and commitment to its independence were crucial factors in the Board’s decision to appoint him as the 18th director general.
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In his inaugural remarks, Brittin referred to the BBC as an “extraordinary, uniquely British asset” and expressed his honor in leading the organization. He emphasized a commitment to work alongside “talented journalists, creatives, and technicians” with a focus on listening, learning, and serving the public. “This is a moment of real risk, yet also real opportunity,” he remarked, stressing the need for agility in reaching audiences and confronting challenges with courage.
Brittin, who has a background as a consultant with McKinsey & Company, spent 18 years at Google, ultimately serving as the president in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. After leaving Google last year, he described his time off as a “gap year,” during which he has engaged in reading and running. He is also a former participant in the World Rowing Championships, representing Team GB in 1989.
The search for Davie’s replacement initially included several female executives, including Jay Hunt of Apple TV Europe, Charlotte Moore, and former Channel 4 CEO Alex Mahon, all of whom ultimately declined the position. As a result, the prospect of a female director general at the nearly century-old broadcaster has been postponed.
Brittin’s candidacy solidified as fewer candidates emerged, and his experience is viewed by many as a strong asset as the BBC prepares for charter renewal. His lack of direct editorial experience has raised questions, especially as previous editorial controversies contributed to Davie’s exit.
As Brittin steps into his new role, attention will be on his performance in parliamentary committees. A previous hearing concerning Google’s tax commitments left him in a challenging position when he appeared unsure of his own salary.
Davie, who resigned dramatically in November following a controversy over a misleadingly edited documentary on Donald Trump, will officially depart next month. In the interim, Rhodri Talfan Davies is leading meetings as the acting director general.
