BBC confirms ex-Guardian boss Matt Brittin as new director-general

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".

Dame 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."

Mr Brittin is a non-executive director of the Guardian Media Group board and prior to joining Google in 2007, spent time in media, marketing and strategy, including as commercial director at Trinity Mirror.

He was also selected as a member of the British Olympic rowing team in Seoul 1988 and won a bronze medal at the World Rowing Championships in 1989.

The Cambridge alumnus also rowed in the 1987, 1988 and 1989 Boat Races. He was made a CBE in the King’s New Year Honours list earlier this year for his services to technology and the enhancement of digital skills.

He will start the role on May 18 and his salary will be £565,000.

Chairman of the BBC Board Samir Shah said: "Matt brings to the BBC deep experience of leading a high-profile and highly-complex organisation through transformation.

"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 to appoint him as the 18th Director-General.

"Matt joins the BBC at a critical time. The Government’s review of the Charter is underway, and it is clear there is need for radical reform of the BBC, its funding model and the framework in which it operates. The stakes for the BBC, and the future of public service broadcasting, have never been higher."