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Ex-Google executive Matt Brittin named BBC director-general

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On Wednesday, March 25, 2026, the BBC officially named former Google executive Matt Brittin as its 18th director-general. Brittin, the former president of Google’s operations in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), will formally assume the role on May 18, 2026.

 He replaces Tim Davie, who resigned in November 2025 following a controversy involving a BBC Panorama documentary about U.S. President Donald Trump.

Following Davie's departure on April 2, Rhodri Talfan Davies (Director of Nations) will serve as interim director-general until Brittin takes over.

Brittin will receive an annual salary of £565,000, matching his predecessor's pay.

His appointment is seen as a move to leverage "big tech" expertise to accelerate the BBC's digital transformation, specifically for platforms like BBC iPlayer and digital news.

Brittin enters the role during a period described by BBC Chairman Samir Shah as one requiring "radical reform". His immediate priorities include:

Managing a $10 billion defamation lawsuit filed by President Trump over the Panorama documentary. Navigating the U.K. government's review of the BBC Royal Charter, which expires at the end of 2027 and determines the corporation's future funding model. Also Addressing a significant decline in licence fee revenues, which fell by over £1.1 billion in the past year.

Background and Criticism

Experience: Beyond his nearly 20-year career at Google, Brittin is a former Olympic rower for Great Britain and was awarded a CBE in January 2026 for services to technology.

Criticism: Some observers and lawmakers have questioned his lack of traditional broadcasting or journalistic experience. To address this, he is expected to appoint a deputy with strong editorial credentials.

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